HC Deb 07 March 1986 vol 93 cc286-7W
Mr. Wareing

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what discussions he has had with the Liverpool city council and the chairman of the Merseyside Residuary Body on the future of Croxteth hall and country park; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Tracey

My noble Friend the Minister of State has had discussions with representatives of Liverpool city council about the future management arrangements for Croxteth. These are not matters for the chairman of the Merseyside Residuary Body.

It is disappointing that the city council, to which the estate was originally given and which has received an allowance for it in its RSG settlement for 1986–87, has not yet made known its intentions for the continuing and proper management of this important local amenity and so end the uncertainty of the staff.

Mr. Wareing

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will visit the Croxteth hall and country park in Liverpool before making a property order under the Local Government Act 1985.

Mr. Tracey

The property order transferring the Croxteth estate to Liverpool city council has already been made.

Mr. Wareing

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what action he is taking to secure the full adoption of the facilities of Croxteth hall and country park as required under section 7(2) of the Local Government Act 1985; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Tracey

I refer the hon. Member to the report under section 7(2) of the Local Government Act 1985, which was laid before the House on 25 February. This describes the steps taken by my right hon. Friend, including the provison of extra resources to the successor authorities and the Countryside Commission.

Mr. Wareing

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment when he will be replying to the letter of 11 February 1986 from the hon. Member for Liverpool, West Derby with reference to Croxteth hall and country park, Liverpool.

Mr. Tracey

A reply was sent on 5 March.

Mr. Wareing

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will list the representations he has received about the future of the Croxteth hall and country park in Liverpool; what discussions he has had with representatives of the local community; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Tracey

I refer the hon. Member to my replies of 28 October 1985, at column368, and of 11 February 1986, at column 400.