HC Deb 11 February 1969 vol 777 cc267-8W
Mr. Boston

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government if he will list the places in which pilot schemes are to be carried out under the policy outlined in the White Paper, Old Houses into New Homes.

Mr. MacColl

Places where pilot schemes are in progress now or in prospect include the county boroughs of Coventry, Exeter, Leeds, Newcastle upon Tyne and Nottingham, and the urban district of Whitworth.

Many other local authorities are considering what parts of their districts might be General Improvement Areas on the passing of the legislation.

Mr. Boston

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government if he will give details about the pilot scheme to be carried out in association with his Department at Sittingbourne, Kent, under the policy outlined in the White Paper, Old Houses into New Homes, including the timing 01: the scheme; when it it likely to start; how long it is expected to take; and if he will give details about the consultations which will take place.

Mr. MacColl

The Sittingbourne and Milton Urban District Council is studying housing conditions in the Frederick Street/Arthur Street/Gibson Street neighbourhood in the light of the White Paper and the Housing Bill. If a general improvement area is declared, this will follow the passage of the Bill.

The duration of the work will depend largely on the outcome of more detailed studies which are about to be started. The Council has written to owners and occupiers and hopes to arrange for public discussion of the proposals.