§ 13. Mr. W. T. Rodgersasked the Minister of Public Building and Works how many cars will be accommodated in the new parking facilities to be provided as part of the major reconstruction now taking place at the London Zoo in Regent's Park.
§ Mr. SharplesWe are informed by the Zoo authorities that no new parking facilities, apart from minor additions, are being provided.
§ Mr. RodgersDoes the Parliamentary Secretary realise what alarming news that is? The reconstruction of London Zoo is designed, after all, to increase the number of visitors. Would he not agree that in this sphere where the Government have decisive influence, they ought to be showing some anxiety to help solve the urban traffic problem?
§ Mr. SharplesOur responsibility in this is that of landlords to the Zoo. It is for the Zoo authority to work out its plans and for the planning authority, the London County Council, to approve the scale of parking facilities provided.
§ Mr. RodgersDoes that mean that the Government have not been consulted? If they have been consulted, what recommendations have they made about the need to provide parking provision to allow for up to 2 million visitors in every year?
§ Mr. SharplesThis is particularly a matter for the London County Council as the planning authority. Our concern is only as landlords.
§ Sir J. Langford-HoltDoes not this go further than that? Is not my hon. Friend aware that the scandalously inadequate parking facilities are over-employed and that the overflow goes into a Royal Park—Regent's Park? Is not my hon. Friend directly responsible for that?
§ Mr. SharplesNo Sir. We provide car parks at Gloucester Slips and there is room there for about 400 cars. That can take all the cars necessary at the moment.