HC Deb 25 November 1987 vol 123 c241W
Mr. John D. Taylor

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland whether the public inquiry into the North Down and Ards area plan 1984 to 1995 will be able to consider the question of designating Strangford lough as an area of special scientific interest.

Mr. Needham

[holding answer 23 November 1987]: This is a matter for the planning appeals commission to consider in the context of the public inquiry currently being held into objections to proposals contained in the North Down and Ards area plan 1984–1995.

Mr. John D. Taylor

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland whether he has committed any public funds to the National Trust for the acquisition of land at Strangford lough after the decision to hold the public inquiry into the North Down and Ards area plan.

Mr. Needham

[holding answer 23 November 1987]: The Department offered grant-aid to the National Trust to purchase lands at Greyabbey, Strangford lough on 27 July 1987. The decision to hold a public inquiry into the North Down and Ards area plan 1984–1995 was announced on 16 September 1987.