HC Deb 13 December 1960 vol 632 c26W
57. Mr. Parker

asked the Minister of Works on what grounds he declined to make a building preservation order on the Moor Hall Chapel, Harefield, in view of the fact that funds for its complete restoration had been promised and that it was described by the Royal Commission on Historical Monuments as especially worthy of preservation.

Mr. R. Thompson

Although the building was derelict and dangerous, the Uxbridge Borough Council deferred demolition for over a year while attempts were made to raise money for full restoration. I understand that the sum subscribed fell well short of this.

My right hon. Friend did not intervene because this building, though undoubtedly of considerable local interest, was not in his view of the outstanding national importance necessary to justify the exercise of his compulsory powers and expenditure from the Ministry's Vote.