HC Deb 17 October 1973 vol 861 cc159-60W
Mr. Urwin

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what further representations he has received from local authorities on the subject of continuing pollution of Durham beaches by disposal of colliery waste material: and what replies he has given.

Mr. Graham Page

Since the hon. Member's previous Question on the subject, on 30th June last, letters have been received from the Durham County Council and the Easington Rural District Council asking when a decision will be taken. They have been told that everything possible is being done to reach an early conclusion on the matter.

Mr. Urwin

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment (1) what steps he now proposes to take to prevent further despoliation of Durham beaches by tipping of colliery waste materials;

(2) what consideration he is giving to alternative methods of disposal of waste materials from collieries situated on the Durham coast; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Graham Page

These matters are under active examination and everything possible is being done to reach an early conclusion on them.

Mr. Urwin

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment how many reports have been commissioned since 1970 on the question of waste disposal from Durham coastal pits; and if he will name the consultants.

Mr. Graham Page

There have been two further investigations since the Hydraulics Research Station completed its report in November 1970 on the effects of colliery waste tipping on the coastal processes. In February 1972 a feasibility study on a proposed breakwater at Crimdon Park was completed by Messrs. Dobbie, Sandford, Fawcett and Partners, consulting engineers, on behalf of the Easington Rural District Council. In April 1972 a report on the financial implications of disposing of the waste at sea was completed by a working party comprised of officials of my Department, the Department of Trade and Industry and the National Coal Board.