§ Mr. Alfred Morrisasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government whether he will give his decision on the application by Manchester Corporation for planning permission to extend the main runway of Manchester Airport.
§ Mr. CrossmanI have today issued my decision granting planning permission for the extension of the runway and also for part of the diversion of the A. 538 road necessitated by the extension. I have invited the corporation to submit a new application for a slightly amended line for the rest of the road diversion, to reduce the effect on Cotteril Clough, a nature reserve and area of special scientific interest. My right hon. Friend the Minister of Aviation has amended the compulsory purchase order submitted by the corporation to exclude land not essential to the extension and has confirmed the amended order.