§ 40. Mr. Prenticeasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs, whether he will take steps to amend the Town and Country Planning (Use Classes) Order, 1950, so that planning permission will be required by anyone proposing to change the use of shops, &c., into premises for the sale of motor cars.
The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Housing and Local Government (Mr. J. R. Bevies)My right hon. Friend knows that this matter is causing concern to certain local authorities, and he is watching the position; but he is not satisfied, on the information at present before him, that an amendment of the Order would be justified.
§ Mr. PrenticeIs it not reasonable that local authorities should be able to say yes or no to a change of this kind which can alter the character of a whole neighbourhood? Will the Minister take particular account of the difficulties that have arisen in the Romford Road area of Manor Park, which has been brought to his attention. and indeed similar difficulties in other parts of Metropolitan Essex? Will he look at this question?
§ Mr. BevinsThis is a problem in East London and in this part of Essex, but it is not a universal problem. We are examining the position in Ilford as a pilot effort and we shall then study the result.