§ Mr. Chris SmithTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland how many representations he has received in relation to that portion of the Highland regional council structure plan relating to skiing development at Lurcher's gulley and in the northern corries of the Cairngorms; how many of these representations were opposed to such development; how many were in favour; and if he will make a statement.
§ Lord James Douglas-HamiltonProposals for the extension of skiing into Lurcher's gully in the Cairngorms feature in Highland regional council's structure plan review which was formally submitted to my right hon. and learned Friend for his approval on 19 January. The period during which objections could be made ended on 2 March, by which time 7,120 letters objecting to the proposals had been received. A further 135 letters had been received expressing support for the proposals. My right hon. and learned Friend is considering the council's proposals and the representations received and will announce his decision in due course.