§ Mr. Leonardasked the Secretary of State for Scotland how many of the town-planning schemes submitted to him by local authorities have made provision for playing fields; and how much money has been expended by his Department for the provision of such facilities?
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§ Mr. ColvilleOf 12 planning schemes submitted to the Department of Health by local authorities under the Town and Country Planning Acts, all except two which relate to small built-up areas make provision for the reservation of land for use as public open spaces, including playing fields.
With regard to the last part of the question, grants totalling £27,309 have been made by the Special Areas Commissioner towards schemes in the Scottish Special Areas and grants amounting to £19,280 in respect of 15 schemes have been approved under the Physical Training and Recreation Act. Applications under the Act in respect of 30 other schemes are presently being investigated.
The hon. Member will also be aware that grants in aid of playing field schemes are given from voluntary funds by the Scottish Committee of the National Playing Fields Association.