HC Deb 09 February 1973 vol 850 cc207-8W
Mrs. Renée Short

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what proposals he has to save the Garrick, Adelphi, Wyndhams, Vaudeville, Phoenix, Arts and Duchess theatres threatened by development and road-widening proposals.

Mr. Rippon

I have no control over the future of these theatres except in the case of the Garrick, Wyndhams and Vaudeville, which are listed as being of special architectural or historic interest. However, I have agreed to receive a deputation from the Theatres' Advisory Council to discuss the future of London theatre buildings in general.

Mrs. Renée Short

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will include the Criterion Theatre in the list of preserved buildings.

Mr. Rippon

The Criterion Theatre was included on 5th February 1970 in the statutory list of buildings of special architectural or historic interest.

Mrs. Renée Short

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will make it his policy to refuse applications for permission for further office building in areas of London where theatres are likely to be affected by such development.

Mr. Rippon

Any application for planning permission must be considered on its merits, but I have agreed to discuss with a delegation from the Theatres' Advisory Council whether applications involving theatre buildings should receive special consideration.

Mrs. Renée Short

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what reply he has sent to representations to him by British Actors Equity about the threat to London's theatres as a result of redevelopment proposals.

Mr. Rippon

I have informed British Actors Equity Association that I am arranging to receive a delegation from the Threates' Advisory Council to discuss the matter.