HC Deb 26 January 1970 vol 794 cc261-2W
Mr. Oakes

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government how many local authorities have submitted schemes for the establishment of country parks under the provisions of the Countryside Act 1968; and what is the total acreage of land involved.

Mr. Skeffington

99 local authorities have submitted to the Countryside Commission 147 proposals for the establishment of country parks. Of these proposals, 21 have been approved or agreed in principle, 93 are still under consideration and 33 have been rejected by the commission. Full details of the acreage are not available but the 21 parks so far approved total about 5,500 acres.

Mr. Oakes

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government how many local authorities have so far established camping and picnic sites under section 10 of the Countryside Act, 1968.

Mr. Skeffington

Local authorities may establish camping and picnic sites under Section 10 of the Countryside Act, 1968 without my right hon. Friend's approval, and the number which have done so is not known. But the Countryside Commission has recommended payment of grant under that Act for 25 picnic sites to be established by 17 local authorities. The commission has not so far recommended grant for any camping sites since a study group it has set up is examining proposals for a network of these sites.

Mr. Oakes

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government what is the total amount of grants paid to local authorities for the establishment of country parks under the provisions of the Countryside Act 1968.

Mr. Skeffington

Payment of grant to local authorities at the rate of 75 per cent. has been approved under the Countryside Act 1968 for schemes for country parks the total cost of which exceeds £300,000. Grant is normally paid in the financial year following that in which expenditure is incurred. Only one grant, amounting to £3,380 has so far been paid.