§ Mr. HeddleTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what steps he proposes to take to encourage local authorities to use simplified planning zones to facilitate private sector investment in inner city regeneration.
§ Mr. ChopeMy Department has already issued advice on the preparation of SPZ schemes (PPG5), on the statutory procedures (circular 25/87), and on the application of environmental assessment procedures in these areas (circular 24/88). Promotional literature has been widely circulated to local planning authorities, businesses and other organisations involved in regenerating inner city areas. SPZ schemes have already been established at Derby and Corby and other schemes in preparation include those at Birmingham, Enfield, Rotherham, Cleethorpes and Glanford/Scunthorpe.