§ Mr. GarnierTo ask the Secretary of State for Health if he will make a statement about the redevelopment of Stretton Hall, Great Glen, with particular reference to his Department's immunity from planning regulations. [23383]
§ Mr. MilburnThe sale of Stretton Hall Hospital in Leicestershire is being managed by the Trent Regional Office of the National Health Service Executive. Outline planning consent has been obtained involving 100 new dwellings, and a sale has been agreed subject to obtaining detailed planning consent. The purchaser will have to comply with all planning legislation affecting the development.
Health authorities lost Crown immunity in 1991. On the abolition of regional health authorities in 1996, some property, which has since been managed by the NHS Executive, regained Crown immunity. This currently applies to Stretton Hall Hospital, pending its sale. However, it is not the Department's policy to take advantage of this situation. NHS Estates, an agency of the Department of Health, with English Heritage have produced guidance which is expected to be followed by all regional offices of the NHS Executive in respect of the care and disposal of historic buildings.