§ Mr. Adleyasked the Secretary of State for the Environment if, in the light of his inspector's report of 25 February on the appeal by Crest Homes plc in respect of land in Ferndown, he will make a statement on the availability of land for housing in south-east Dorset.
§ Mr. TraceyMy right hon. Friend understands that sufficient land is available in south-east Dorset to meet the housing provision in the south-east Dorset structure plan. Structure plan policies are only one of the material considerations to be taken into account when determining planning applications. It is declared Government policy that there is a presumption in favour of allowing development unless harm would thereby be caused to interests of acknowledged importance.