§ Mr. Cormackasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what plans he has for the future of Chiswick House and its grounds.
§ Mr. ShoreI shall continue to maintain Chiswick House and the associated ornamental buildings which are in my guardianship, and display them to the public. The gardens are the responsibility of the London borough of Hounslow.
Designs have been prepared for a new building on the site presently occupied by temporary huts. It would provide for the physical needs of visitors and staff, allow space for interpretative material, and enable the ticket office and staff accommodation to be moved from the Palladian villa. However, no decision will 234W be taken until I have received and considered the views of the relevant statutory bodies, the local planning authority and others with an interest in the proposal.