§ 38. Mr. Roseasked the Secretary of State for the Environment whether he will make a statement concerning his decision to permit the destruction of Fails-worth Golf Club and course, Moston, Manchester, in order to permit private building.
§ Mr. Graham PageThe decision to allow housing development at Failsworth strikes a balance between the undisputed housing needs of the area and the local planning authority's plans for the future development of a comprehensive system of open spaces. The scheme will make an important contribution to housing in Manchester by providing 25 acres for fairly high density development at moderate cost, as well as retaining the remaining 28 acres of the site for open space to which the public will have access.
§ Mr. Roseasked the Secretary of State for the Environment (1) what information he has as to the total area of land owned by British Rail in the Manchester area, and as to what amount is derelict and/or suitable for building purposes;
(2) what information he has as to the area of Failsworth Golf Course as a proportion of derelict land owned by British Rail or otherwise owned in the Man- 78W chester area; and why he has permitted building on this course.
§ Mr. Graham PageMy Department does not maintain records of land holdings in particular areas by British Railways or other nationalised industries; this is a matter for the boards concerned. As regards Failsworth Golf Course, I would refer the hon. Member to the earlier reply which was given to him today.