HC Deb 19 March 1965 vol 708 cc334-5W
Mr. Francis Noel-Baker

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government whether he proposes to make a further study of Swindon and the surrounding area before determining the development policy for this part of England; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Crossman

My Department, with the Berkshire and Wiltshire County Councils and Swindon Borough Council, have jointly commissioned Messrs. Llewelyn-Davies, Weeks and Partners to examine the feasibility of housing approximately 300,000 additional people in the area bounded by Hungerford, Thatcham, Didcot and Swindon and to make recommendations for the general location and form of development within this area.

This study, which is expected to take about nine months, is without prejudice to any decisions which may be taken as a result of the review of policy on the South East now in hand.