§ Mr. G. Robertsasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government why approval of a burial ground at Beddgelert, Caernarvonshire, has been delayed; what was the date of the public inquiry held to consider the matter; what was recommended as a result of that inquiry; why he considers that another public inquiry is now necessary; and whether, in view of the seriousness of the 152W position in Beddgelert and widespread concern about the delay in approving facilities, he will expedite a settlement.
§ Mr. SandysThe delay in the provision of a new burial ground at Beddgelert is due to the parish council's inability to purchase suitable land by agreement, and to difficulties in regard to access to the site which they want to acquire compulsorily. The county council acting on behalf of the parish council, made a compulsory purchase order for the site, and a public inquiry into the order was held on 8th October and 13th November, 1953. This order was not confirmed because the council was not able to establish that the necessary access to the land could be obtained.
A second compulsory purchase order relating to the site and to some access land has now been made and, as there are objections which have not been withdrawn, I am obliged by the provisions of the Acquisition of Land (Authorisation Procedure) Act, 1946, to hold either a hearing or a public inquiry.
I shall do all I can to expedite the matter.