§ Mr. DalyellTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, pursuant to his answer of 14 July,Official Report, column 649, what proposals he now has for protection of the newt colony at Barnfield pond.
§ Mr. Kenneth CarlisleI have been asked to reply.
The consultant's assessment requested by English Nature indicated that realignment of the new road in the vicinity of the Barnfield pond would significantly increase the cost of the scheme and delay progress. Following further discussions with English Nature and Dr. Cummins a suitable new habitat for the newt colony was identified close to the existing site. The Department will be working closely with them on the detail of the revised habitat area.