HC Deb 22 February 1988 vol 128 cc57-8W
Mr. McLoughlin

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment how long it took him to come to a decision on the planning application in respect of the outbuilding near Pikehall farm, Pikehall, Hartington Nether Quarter, Derbyshire; and if he will give the reason for this length of time.

Mrs. Roe

A listed building consent application for demolition of the stable block of outbuildings at Pikehall farm was determined by the Secretary of State on 12 November 1983 in just under 12 months from the date when it was removed from the jurisdiction of the Peak Park planning board.

Suitably qualified and experienced inspectors are in short supply, and inquiries often take some time to arrange. A decision was further delayed in this case because the inspector adjourned the inquiry to allow parties to produce further information.