HC Deb 24 April 1986 vol 96 cc225-6W
Mr. Steen

asked the Secretary of State for Transport when the alternative land for public open space for the southern route of the proposed Okehampton bypass was identified; what factors inhibited the identification of such land prior to the Joint Committee proceedings on the special procedure orders; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Peter Bottomley

Exchange land for the small part of Meldon Woods required for construction of the bypass was identified before publication of the draft compulsory purchase order in 1978. The additional land which we are hoping to acquire by agreement and make available for use by the public was offered to the Department by its owners in October 1985.