HC Deb 25 October 1949 vol 468 cc1126-7
3. Mr. Swingler

asked the Minister of Town and Country Planning what action has been taken by his Department to find a suitable site for the proposed engineering workshop of Messrs. F. H. Burgess, Ltd., in Ormskirk, Lancashire, about which negotiations have been going on since July, 1948.

Mr. Silkin

There was never any question of the Department finding a site. This was a matter for the local planning authority. They have tried and failed to find a suitable site and the matter has now come to appeal. I am therefore holding a local inquiry on 15th November next.

Mr. Swingler

Is the Minister aware that this Stafford firm acquired a site in Ormskirk before 1948 with the planning consent of the Ormskirk Council and that there has been deadlock over the question for more than 12 months owing to the obstructive attitude of the Lancashire County Planning Committee? Will he do something to get a move on so that this work may be provided in Lancashire?

Mr. Silkin

I cannot, of course, accept my hon. Friend's statement as to the attitude of the local authority, but I am getting a move on by holding the local inquiry on 15th November.