HC Deb 16 July 1963 vol 681 cc323-4
29. Mr. G. Wilson

asked the Minister of Public Building and Works when he hopes to develop the Abingdon Street site now used as a car park; and what plans he has for an underground car park and gardens at street level.

Mr. Sharples

Preparations are being made for work to start on the underground garage next month. The surface will be laid out as a public open space, on completion of the garage.

Mr. Wilson

Why has it taken so long to make proper use of this site? What is happening about the garden? Is there to be a competition, or how will my hon. Friend decide what the layout of the garden will be?

Mr. Sharples

The development of the site is a matter for the Westminster City Council, and we are acting as its agents in this matter. As regards the layout of the site, a design has been worked out by our own architects which, I hope, will be pleasing to the House.