HC Deb 28 June 1960 vol 625 cc100-1W
60. Mr. Awbery

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs if he is aware of the injustice inflicted upon the owner and tenants of houses situated on street corners, in that, although the houses are of the same size, these tenants have to pay a heavier charge for private street works than tenants living in other parts of the street; and if he will take steps to equalise the charges for all the houses on the street or make the initial charge for road making, prior to adoption, the responsibility of the local authorities.

Sir K. Joseph

There are ways in which the special position of corner houses may be taken into consideration. Local authorities may adopt a code which enables them in apportioning charges to take into account the degree of benefit which particular premises will derive from the street works; and under the Highways Act, 1959, all local authorities now have power to bear the whole or part of the cost which would otherwise be apportioned on premises of which only the rear or a flank fronts the street. My right hon. Friend sees objections to the suggestions made by the hon. Member, but he is looking into the whole question.