§ Mr. Rossiasked the Secretary of State for Transport what are the reasons for his recent advertisement for the compulsory acquisition and exchange of public open space in or about Highgate wood and Queen's wood in connection with the Archway road improvement scheme; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Tom KingOn 22 December 1981 my predecessor announced a new inquiry into t le Archway road improvement. It is clearly necessary to remove the serious uncertainty which is causing intolerable blight in the area. I am satisfied that the most sensible step is to press ahead with another inquiry which can consider whether or not simply to revoke the original orders made nearly a decade ago; or revoke and then make new orders for the revised scheme; or consider alternative proposals which have been put forward by objectors.
My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for the Environment and I intend to initiate arrangements for this new inquiry straight away. We hope soon to announce the appointment of an inspector, who will be nominated by my noble and learned Friend the Lord Chancellor. A pre-inquiry meeting will be held well in advance to discuss arrangements. The date and venue of this meeting, and the inquiry which should start early in the new year will be announced as soon as possible.
The recent publication of notices concerning exchange land certificates is part of the procedure leading up to the new inquiry, at which any objections to the proposed certificates will also be heard.