HC Deb 19 June 1972 vol 839 cc3-4W
Mr. Roderick

asked the Secretary of State for Wales if he will direct the Forestry Commission not to plant around the Taf Fechan Water Board's reservoir.

Mr. Peter Thomas

No; the Board wishes the area to be planted in order to prevent water pollution.

Mr. Hooson

asked the Secretary of State for Wales what plans there are for the expansion of the Craig Goch reservoir.

Mr. Peter Thomas

The possibility of enlarging the Craig Goch reservoir is being considered by the statutory authorities concerned, namely the Severn and the Wye River Authorities and Birmingham Corporation, which owns the reservoir. Consulting engineers have been appointed to undertake feasibility studies and have already started work.

Mr. Hooson

asked the Secretary of State for Wales what plans there are for further reservoirs in the Mid-Wales area which are likely to reach fruition during the course of the next five years.

Mr. Peter Thomas

The Water Resources Board's report on Water Resources in Wales and the Midlands indicated that a further source to regulate the River Severn would be needed by 1978. The options being investigated by the statutory authorities concerned include the enlargement of the Nant y Moch and Craig Goch reservoirs and the building of new reservoirs on the Afon Gam and at Marton Pool in Shropshire. I have ruled out the possible development of a reservoir on the Dulas. I must stress that at this stage the various possibilities are simply being considered and no firm decisions have been taken.