§ Mr. ThurnhamTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what restrictions he has received during 1988 about the drawing up of covenants restricting development on open land; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Chope[holding answer 6 December 1988]: Section 52 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1971 permits the making of agreements between the local planning authority and any person with an interest in the land for the purpose of restricting or regulating the development or use of land. My right hon. Friend has received representations that such agreements are sometimes required where they are not necessary for the development to proceed, and the Government are considering issuing further policy guidance to curtail abuse of these powers.