§ Mr. Tony LloydTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will publish in theOfficial Report advice given to Trafford borough council about action to be taken concerning land at and near Newcroft drive, Stretford, in the event that the local authority failed to develop it; if he will list those bodies, including hon. Members, who have written to him on this issue; what recent letters have been sent to local residents or others; and what these letters said.
§ Mr. Trippier[holding answer 23 November 1987]: In the light of a proposal by Trafford borough council to develop land at Newcroft drive, Urmston, for a social services resource centre and municipal housing, my right hon. Friend decided on 29 June 1987 not to proceed with his earlier intention to direct the disposal of the land. The borough council, having now failed to approve planning applications for its own development, has been advised informally that the Secretary of State will wish to reconsider his attitude.
Only Mrs. C. Ryder, of the Newcroft Park action group has corresponded with the Department about this matter since 29 June 1987, her particular concern being the Secretary of State's likely attitude if the local authority were to designate the site as public open space. She has been informed that the Department cannot say at present what the Secretary of State might decide in relation to the possibility of a direction to dispose. A decision will be taken in due course having regard to all the circumstances and the individual merits of the case.