Oxford Development Plan

HC Deb 21 December 1965 vol 722 c1847

23. Mr. Woodhouse

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government when he will announce his decision on the Oxford development plan.

Mr. Crossman

I am still not in a position to announce a decision, but it should not be much longer.

Mr. Woodhouse

Is the Minister aware of the impatience and indignation which are universally felt in Oxford at the interminable delay in his decision? Can he give any good reason for the delay? In particular, can he say whether he is having second thoughts about a road across Christchurch Meadow?

Mr. Crossman

I have had no sign of the feelings that the hon. Member describes in Oxford. Oxford quite rightly is frustrated by over 10 years of delay in the decisions about its development plan. This is an extremely difficult decision and I make no apology whatever for delaying it to try to get the best possible solution for Oxford City.