§ 6. Mr. SweeneyTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what steps he has taken to encourage the redevelopment of Barry docks. [31651]
§ Mr. HagueOn 3 June, I welcomed the launch of the redevelopment of Barry docks, which is being undertaken as a joint venture between Associated British Ports and the Welsh Development Agency, with the potential to create 2,000 jobs and 1,000 new homes.
§ Mr. SweeneyOn behalf of the people of Barry, I thank my right hon. Friend for his recent visit to the Barry waterfront, where he made a stirring speech. Does he agree that the project, which will mean many new jobs for the Vale of Glamorgan, represents the most important development since the docks were built? Is it not a prime example of partnership between ABP—from the private sector—the WDA and local authorities?
§ Mr. HagueI thank my hon. Friend for his reference to my speech on that occasion. This is a significant project that, when completed, will do much to improve the economy of the dock area, Barry town and the Vale of Glamorgan in general. It is a fine example of partnership between the public and private sectors, and builds on our excellent record since 1979 of land reclamation in Wales. So far, more than 15,000 acres have been involved. It is the largest and most sustained programme of its kind in Europe.