§ Mr. Sumbergasked the Secretary of State for the Environment whether he will make a statement on the priorities for derelict land grant and the operation of the grant regime.
§ Mr. Kenneth BakerSince taking office we have increased derelict land grant from £23 million in 1979–80
166W to £76 million in 1985–86 This shows our continuing commitment to the recovery of derelict land. This makes a vital contribution to urban renewal. I have today issued for consultation a draft circular on derelict land grant. The circular underlines the need to reuse land in our towns and cities. It stresses that priority will be given to reclamation schemes which lead to land being made available for private housing, industrial or commercial development, especially in urban areas. The early commitment of a developer in such schemes will no longer be required; the important factor is the intended use by the local authorities of the reclaimed land. Environmental schemes in the worst areas of derelication, where the surroundings often inhibit investment, will also be encouraged.
Rolling programmes will be considered for the extensive areas of derelication, allowing authorities to plan reclamation over a number of years with greater confidence.
The draft circular also draws attention to the important part private owners can play in reclaiming their land, with the help of grant, to bring it back into productive use.
Besides improving the quality of life, reclamation relieves pressure for development on our green belts and agricultural land. We must now maintain the progress we have made over the past few years.
Copies of the draft circular have been placed in the Library.