§ 7. Mr. Rowlandasked the Minister of Power if he will give a general direction 216 to the National Coal Board to institute a survey of all colliery spoil banks whose future growth is planned to take them nearer to occupied houses and to review policy in the light of such a survey.
§ Mr. MarshThe Board has already examined all its spoil heaps to ensure that they do not constitute a hazard to life or property. Policy will be reviewed in the light of the report of the tribunal which is now sitting.
§ Mr. RowlandIs my right hon. Friend aware that that will give partial satisfaction to my constituents, who in this instance are concerned not so much with safety as with amenity? In at least one village in Warwickshire, the Coal Board spoil bank will advance during the next few years quite close to a recently erected private housing estate. If a general direction is not appropriate in this instance, will my right hon. Friend look into the case?
§ Mr. MarshCertainly, if my hon. Friend will send me details of this or any other instance, I will look at it. Pit-heaps which were in existence on 1st July, 1948, can be continued only under the general permission of the Town and Country Planning (General Development) Order, 1963. This may well be an alternative avenue open to my hon. Friend.