HC Deb 19 June 1968 vol 766 cc152-3W
Mr. Kenyon

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government (1) by what authority the consultants for the Chorley/Leyland New Town are refusing to allow new firms to set up works in the Chorley area;

(2) how many applications for new industries in the Chorley area have been refused by the consultants for the Chorley/Leyland New Town.

Mr. Greenwood

The local authorities in the area of the proposed new town have at my request agreed to obtain the views of the consultants when dealing with planning applications which might be of importance in relation to the consultants' proposals for the new town, such as an application for development on a site which could prejudice the line of an important road. The local planning authorities have agreed to refer to me any case where they consider that permission should be granted against the consultants' advice.

I am inquiring about cases in which these procedures have been followed in relation to proposals for new industrial development in the Chorley area, and will write to my hon. Friend. I understand that in a recent case which my hon. Friend may have in mind the consultants, with the firm and the local authority, were able to find a suitable site for an industrial expansion in place of one where development would have prejudiced a road line.