HC Deb 26 June 1939 vol 349 cc49-50W
Mr. R. Morgan

asked the First Commissioner of Works by what authority the public are permitted to bring motor cars into Richmond Park, or to park them there on the parking-places provided; and whether it is proposed that motorists should continue indefinitely to escape a charge for these privileges in view of the fact that riders are now to be asked to pay for their right of admission?

Mr. Ramsbotham

Motor cars are permitted to be brought into Richmond Park under the general powers of the Commissioners of Works acting on behalf of the Crown as the owner of the park. Regulations dealing with the parking of cars have been made and published under the Parks Regulation Acts, 1872 and 1926. No proposals are under consideration for making a charge to motorists.

Mr. R. Morgan

asked the First Commissioner of Works whether he can state the estimated cost of the upkeep of Richmond Park for the current financial year; how this compares with that for the financial year ending last April; and what is the approximate cost of maintenance for the current year of the riding track in that park and of the roads therein?

Mr. Ramsbotham

The cost of the upkeep, under all heads, of Richmond Park during the current financial year is estimated to be £25,100. The cost during the previous financial year was approximately £27,100. The expenditure to be incurred on the riding track during the current financial year will depend upon the funds available, but is expected to amount to about £1,000. The maintenance of the roads, during the same period, will cost approximately £2,000.