109. Mr. Jegerasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government what action he has now taken to prevent St. James's Theatre from being replaced by offices.
§ Mr. SandysThe London County Council recently gave planning permission in principle for the replacement of St. James's Theatre by an office building. I am informed by Mr. Prince Littler, part-owner of the site, that the application for this permission was made without his knowledge or that of his partner, and that they have no present intention of demolishing the theatre or selling the site. On the contrary, Mr. Littler assures me that he is most anxious to do what he can, consistent with the economic running of his business, to preserve this well-known London theatre.
While St. James's Theatre undoubtedly possesses character and charm, the exceptional concern which this project has evoked is not based solely upon architectural considerations. Nor can it be wholly accounted for by distress at the possible disappearance of a famous playhouse with sentimental associations. Behind these feelings there is, I believe, the understandable fear that, if one by one other West End theatres were similarly to disappear, London's renowned position in the world of drama would be endangered.
I have discussed this wider issue with representatives of the London County Council; and they are considering what practical action is open to them, in their capacity as planning authority, to help safeguard the future of London's theatres.