105. Mr. H. D. Hughesasked the Minister of Town and Country Planning what consideration is now given, in approving acquisition and use by Government Departments and other bodies of land in proposed National Park areas, to the effect such acquisition and use may have on the amenities of the parks; and what steps is he taking, or contemplating, to survey the present use of land in the areas by such bodies from this standpoint.
§ Mr. KingThere are general arrangements for consultation with my Department in cases where Government Departments propose to acquire or develop 47W land. Due weight is given in these consultations to the effect of the proposals on amenity, whether in special areas such as those of the proposed National Parks, or elsewhere.
Proposals by statutory undertakers and nationalised industries which require sanction by a Government Department are subject to special procedure under which the planning authorities are consulted. Other development by these bodies is subject to ordinary planning control. My right hon. Friend has no reason to fear that the local planning authorities are not mindful of the special requirements of the parts of their areas which have been included within the proposed National Parks. The question how-far certain classes of permitted development should be brought under control in Park areas will be reviewed if and when such parks are established.
As regards the second part of the Question, local authorities are required to survey their areas for the purpose of preparing development plans, and they have been advised, in doing so, to take note of the recommendations of the Hob-house Report in so far as they affect their areas.