HC Deb 12 June 1975 vol 893 cc226-7W
Mr. Thorne

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment whether he will publish his specific proposals designed to democratise the Central Lancashire New Town Development Corporation, with particular reference to local community representation.

Mr. John Silkin

My right hon. Friend's proposals for board membership of the Central Lancashire New Town Development Corporation will shortly be the subject of consultation with the relevant local authorities in accordance with the terms of Section 2 of and Schedule 2 to the New Towns Act 1965. It is customary to carry out these consultations in confidence until the identity of those to be appointed has been established.

Mr. Thorne

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment whether he has received from the Central Lancashire New Town Development Corporation any budgeting figures related to specific proposals within its plan for early development; and, if so, whether he will publish them.

Mr. John Silkin

Central Lancashire New Town Development Corporation, like other new town corporations, operates within an approved annual budget. Within this overall budget, development corporations are free to decide their own development priorities based on planning approvals given by my right hon. Friend under Section 6(1) of the New Towns Act 1965. Details of each corporation's expenditure are published in the form of audited accounts as part of its annual report to my right hon. Friend.

Mr. Thorne

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment (1) whether he is aware of the property blight which is becoming an increasingly difficult problem in the Preston areas affected by the published plans of the Central Lancashire New Town Development Corporation; and whether he will take action designed to reduce the uncertainties;

(2) whether he is yet able to comment on the inspector's report on the Central Lancashire New Town inquiry with particular reference to the Ashton Road plans and Ingol housing;

(3) whether he has received the final inspector's report following the public inquiry held at Preston regarding the Central Lancashire New Town; and whether he will make a statement.

Mr. John Silkin

The inspector's report has not yet been received; it is expected later this month. Given the size and complexity of the outline plan proposals and the length of the public inquiry into these proposals it is likely to be some time before my right hon. Friend will be able to issue his decision.