HC Deb 20 June 1967 vol 748 cc1388-9
14. Sir A. V. Harvey

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government if he will receive a deputation from Macclesfield concerning the proposal to erect new gasholders there.

Mr. Willey

My right hon. Friend has called in for decision by himself an application by the North Western Gas Board for planning permission to erect gasholders and buildings at Paradise Farm, Macclesfield. A public local inquiry at which interested parties will be able to state their case is being arranged and it would therefore be improper for him to receive a deputation.

Sir A. V. Harvey

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that a few weeks ago his hon. Friend—one of the UnderSecretaries—gave an undertaking that he would visit Macclesfield to look at the site? Is he further aware that the proposal to erect two gasometers, 135 feet in diameter, in the most beautiful country in the Pennines is sacrilege? Will he protect the interests of local residents?

Mr. Willey

As this is to be the subject of a local inquiry and my right hon. Friend will be exercising an appellate jurisdiction, the hon. Member will not expect me to comment upon what he has said.