Land and Property (Hansard, 6 July 1994)

§ Mr. Barry Jones
To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what is his policy on the acquisition of land and property for road construction.

§ Sir Wyn Roberts
The general policy is that all land that is needed for trunk road construction is acquired under compulsory purchase. When a scheme is at the public consultation stage or a preferred route is protected for planning purposes landowners can ask that the Department acquire their property under statutory or discretionary powers. They would need to demonstrate that they were unable to sell their property at normal market value because of the impending road scheme. Each case is considered on its merits and decisions are taken on the basis of the level of impact that the road proposals will have.

§ Mr. Barry Jones
To ask the Secretary of State for Wales if he will make a statement on the management of land and property acquired as a consequence of road construction plans.

§ Sir Wyn Roberts
Land and property which is acquired in advance of trunk road schemes is managed until it is needed for the works. It is maintained and let where appropriate. Residential property capable of being used for social purposes is offered for short tenancies of a fixed-term nature to housing associations and local housing authorities. Any land or property which is eventually surplus is sold on the open market.

§ Mr. Barry Jones
To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what is his policy concerning the disposal of surplus land and property.

§ Sir Wyn Roberts
The Department disposes of surplus land and property on the open market at the best price to the public purse, in line with Treasury guidance. Local housing authorities and housing associations are given the opportunity to bid on residential property.

§ Mr. Barry Jones
To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what is the estimated value of land and property 237W held by his Department as a consequence of actual and proposed road programmes; and if he will make a statement.

§ Sir Wyn Roberts
The estimated disposable value of land and property acquired in advance of proposed trunk road schemes which is or will eventually be surplus to requirements is £4£5 million. Land and property which is required for operational use is not revalued subsequent to acquisition.