§ 52. Mr. Hunterasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government what action he proposes to take to prevent London theatres being demolished for office building, in view of their cultural value to the nation.
§ Mr. H. BrookeMy only responsibilities here arise under the Town and Country Planning Acts, which relate to the right use of land or buildings. Under these Acts permission is not required for the demolition of any building unless it is covered by a building preservation order; and such an order can be made only for a building which is of special architectural or historic interest. There is no power under the Acts to preserve a theatre as such.
However, when my predecessor approved the County of London Development Plan on 7th March, 1955, he inserted a provision that permission would not be given, except in very special circumstances, for a change of use to office purposes of places of assembly, which include theatres, even in an area where offices would normally be regarded as unobjectionable. This will ensure that any proposal to replace a theatre by offices is fully considered, and that permission is withheld where that action is justified on planning grounds.
§ Mr. HunterWhilst thanking the right hon. Gentleman for that reply, may I ask whether he is aware that there are now eight theatres fewer in the West End of London than there were before the war? In view of the cultural value of the living theatre to the nation, will the right hon. Gentleman watch the position very closely? Will he bear in mind that many of these valuable sites are now attracting those who seek to build offices?
§ Mr. BrookeYes, Sir. I will watch the position very carefully, and the London County Council, as the planning authority, gave a similar assurance to my predecessor.
§ Mr. G. R. StraussWhen the right hon. Gentleman is considering the cost of preserving an existing theatre, will be hear in mind that it will cost the best part of £1 million to build a new one?