HC Deb 23 July 1986 vol 102 cc260-1W
24. Mr. Cockeram

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he is now able to supply figures as to the proportion of new housing starts, in the most recent two years, which are situated on land which has previously been developed; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. John Patten

Information in the form requested is not available. However, figures recently issued for land use changes in England recorded during 1985 show that about 45 per cent. of land developed for residential use was previously developed or was vacant land in built up areas. The other 55 per cent. was mainly land previously in agricultural use.

33. Sir Peter Mills

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what proportion of land used for residential development in recent years has been previously developed.

Mr. Tracey

Figures recently issued for land use changes in England, recorded during 1985, show that about 45 per cent. of land developed for residential use was previously developed or was vacant land in built-up areas. The other 55 per cent. was mainly land previously in agricultural use.