HC Deb 06 July 1953 vol 517 cc842-3
30. Mr. Pearson

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power if he is aware that the proposal to construct an electricity power station on The Leys, Gileston, St. Athan, Glamorgan, if proceeded with will destroy approximately 135 acres of good agricultural land and valuable amenities which includes the Barry Golf Club, established over 56 years ago; and what steps he has taken, before giving his consent, to find an alternative site less destructive of good agricultural land and amenities.

Mr. Geoffrey Lloyd

I have heard that there may be a proposal for a power station in the Aberthaw area of Gileston, Glamorgan, but the British Electricity Authority have not yet applied for my consent and I have no details of the proposal at present.

Mr. Pearson

Does the Minister recall that only recently he had to refuse his consent to the siting of a power station at Machen, in Monmouthshire? Would it not be an advantage for the planning authority to be called in at an early stage instead of being almost the last to be informed about the siting of these stations?

Mr. Lloyd

It is difficult for me to act before an application has been made to me by the British Electricity Authority.