§ 14. Mr. Benceasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what steps he is taking to promote the construction of community centres in new towns, and in burghs expanding as a result of overspill agreements.
§ The Under-Secretary of State for Scotland (Mrs. Judith Hart)New town corporations have been asked to discuss with local authorities the provision of a balanced programme of amenity facilities including community centres, and have been authorised to make grants to secure the necessary facilities at the right time. Similar provision in other developing areas can be made by education, housing or other authorities.
§ Mr. BenceI thank my hon. Friend for that Answer. Is she aware that the new town of Cumbernauld has been very successful with youth activities and youth organisations in general, but that it lacks playing facilities and cultural amenities? Will she see that the standard of cultural activities and sporting amenities are maintained by ensuring that adequate resources are created for the growth of houses?
§ Mrs. HartYes, we are very concerned that this should be so. The Standing Consultative Council on Youth and Community Service is looking at this problem. With that, the assistance given to the arts and to sport and the existing arrangements to allow a development corporation to give £4 per head of the population of a new town, it should be possible to find a solution of the right kind and I agree that it is most important that this should be so.