HC Deb 04 November 1970 vol 805 cc1067-8
22. Mr. Rost

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment whether he is satisfied as to the consideration given to recreational uses when planning permission is given for the construction of new reservoirs; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Peter Walker

It would not be legal for a planning authority to impose a condition about recreational use in giving planning permission for a reservoir; but I understand that this aspect is taken into account in the preliminary consultations between the promoters of reservoir schemes and local planning authorities.

Water undertakings and river authorities are well aware that it is my policy to encourage the greatest practicable use of reservoirs for recreation. We are about to write to water undertakings reinforcing this point.

Mr. Rost

My right hon. Friend's reply will be welcomed by hon. Members on both sides of the House who are anxious to promote greater leisure facilities and the fuller development of the environment. Is he aware that the progress made in this direction in South-East Derbyshire provides an example at which many local authorities might care to look?

Mr. Walker

I am aware of the progress made in South-East Derbyshire, and I shall do all that I can to encourage local authorities interested in this subject to see that example.

Mr. Denis Dowell

I appreciate the Minister's continuance of our policy, but may I ask whether, when he is sending out his circular, he will take steps to make increased capital allocations available for the building of the necessary facilities so that water resources can be used for recreational purposes?

Mr. Walker

I am aware of the difficulties about the amount of capital made available by local authorities during the tenure of office of the hon. Gentleman and his hon. Friends. We shall look into the capital needs of this project.

Mr. Blenkinsop

Does the right hon. Gentleman agree that in some cases the best way of encouraging recreational development is not to build the reservoirs at all?

Mr. Walker

I am aware of the hon. Gentleman's views on this subject.