HC Deb 14 November 1973 vol 864 cc149-50W
47. Mr. David Price

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment whether he will call in the planning application of Southampton University to build residential accommodation for 1,420 students in the parish of Chilworth and institute a public inquiry under Section 35 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1971, in view of local opposition to the proposal and the fact that this application satisfies criteria laid down in the Town and Country Planning (Development Plans) Direction 1965, Circular No. 70/65, namely that the proposed development would represent a substantial departure from the provisions of the development plan and would affect the whole neighbourhood.

Mr. Graham Page

I understand that Hampshire County Council considers that the proposed development would be a substantial departure from the provisions of the development plan, and that it has therefore decided to refer the planning application to my right hon. and learned Friend. When the matter comes before him formally my right hon. and learned Friend will carefully consider whether he should call in the application for his own decision and hold a public inquiry.