§ 52. Mr. FavellTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what has been the average total of land transferred from farmland to urban uses each decade since 1958; what steps he proposes to take to increase the availability of land for building; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. ChopeThe Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food's records show that in the periods 1958–68, 1968–78 and 1978–85 the average estimated net area of farmland transferred to urban and industrial development (including mineral workings) each year in England was 14,000, 13,400 and 5,100 hectares respectively. More recent data in this series are not yet available. The planning policy guidance note "Local Plans" (PPG12) issued on 30 November emphasises that it is the responsibility of local planning authorities to make realistic provision for the foreseeable development needs of their area, in general conformity with the structure plan. In the last two years about 46 per cent. of new housing in England has been on derelict or vacant land in urban areas; the Government are committed to policies of restraint in green belts and other environmentally important areas.