HL Deb 11 June 2003 vol 649 cc45-6WA
Lord Laird

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether, in Northern Ireland, existing former railway track beds will be preserved for future transport use. [HL2830]

Lord Williams of Mostyn

Development plans will identify disused rail track beds, which provide a realistic opportunity for reuse for transportation purposes, or for recreation, leisure or tourism related use. Protection of these routes is a "material consideration" in the determination of planning applications and appeals.