HC Deb 29 March 1960 vol 620 cc101-2W
39. Mr. Robert Cooke

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs when the survey for the list of buildings of special architectural or historic interest for the city of Bristol under Section 30 of the Town and Country Planning Act, 1947, was started by his investigator in the field; when it was completed by the investigator; when the statutory list was issued; and what were the reasons for the delay.

Sir K. Joseph

The survey was started in March, 1947, and completed in November, 1949. The statutory list was issued in January, 1959. This exceptional delay occurred mainly because there was particular difficulty in obtaining names and addresses of the owners and occupiers of the buildings on the list, and because the small staff had much other work to do as well.

47. Mr. Robert Cooke

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs what steps have to be taken between the completion of the investigator's survey and the issue of a statutory list under Section 30 of the Town and Country Planning Act, 1947; and whether he is satisfied with the rate at which lists are now being issued.

Sir K. Joseph

A provisional list based on the investigator's report is sent to the local authority and to preservation societies, and their comments are considered. The name and address of the owner and occupier of every building on the list has to be obtained and they are given an opportunity to make representations. Progress with this very large task is restricted by the need for economy in staff. There was a substantial increase in the number of lists issued in 1959 and my right hon. Friend hopes for a further improvement this year.