§ Mr. Platts-Millsasked the Minister of Town and Country Planning by how many acres have the open spaces in the central area been increased since the recommendations embodied in the Abercrombie Plan for Greater London were accepted in principle.
§ Mr. SilkinWhile exact information is not available, the actual increase in open space in the central area of London since March, 1946, has been very small. Progress in this matter has necessarily been 33W affected by the current instructions for restriction of capital expenditure. I have, however, authorised the acquisition of some 23 acres, and am at present examining proposals for the purchase of another 30 acres. This latter represents the first stage of the short-term programme prepared by the London County Council for the acquisition of 300 acres in the areas of greatest deficiency. Proposals for comprehensive redevelopment of areas covered by Declaratory Orders will make provision for large increases of open space, for which a precise figure is not, however, available. A satisfactory standard of open space in the congested areas can of course only be attained as and when extensive demolition and redevelopment becomes possible.