HC Deb 17 December 1968 vol 775 cc1139-40
6. Mr. Goodhew

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government when he expects to announce his decision on the St. Albans Central Area Development Plan.

Mr. K. Robinson

My right hon. Friend has consulted the Hertfordshire County Council about proposed modifications. After it has consulted the St. Albans City Council, the proposed modifications will need to be published and comments invited before a decision can be taken.

Mr. Goodhew

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that this matter has been hanging fire for a long time and is causing not only increasing inconvenience but hardship to people in St. Albans, who find their property is affected by the plan and do not always find the city council able to purchase, even when it wishes to do so, because of the reluct- ance of the Government to give loan sanction in every case?

Mr. Robinson

The proposals needed much detailed and careful consideration before any conclusion could be reached. The demolition of about 700 properties was involved and over 200 objections were received. But we will avoid any undue delay.

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