HC Deb 13 November 1990 vol 180 cc91-2W
Mr. Blunkett

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what alternative strategy for urban development corporations he is recommending to deal with recession in the property market; if he will now give local authorities, community development trusts and local businesses land and resources to enable them to come forward with alternative schemes to provide local employment and affordable housing in urban development corporation areas; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Portillo

I am content with the strategies currently being pursued by the urban development corporations.

Mr. Blunkett

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment which individual urban development corporation projects have been postponed; which individual projects have been cancelled; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Portillo

Urban development corporations budget for a wide range of projects. The precise mix is constantly under review and revision in the light of changing circumstances and priorities.

Mr. Blunkett

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment how much land is currently owned by urban development corporations in England; how long it has been in their ownership; and what plans there are for its development by the private sector.

Mr. Portillo

[holding answer 12 November 1990]: Urban development corporations currently own about 2,000 hectares which they will put to a wide variety of development, environmental and infrastructure uses. Information on how long they have held each plot of land is not readily available.