HC Deb 30 November 1993 vol 233 cc498-9W
Mr. Cohen

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what plans he has to assist shopping provision and infrastructure within urban areas which are currently poorly provided for.

Mr. Baldry

The recently revised planning policy guidance note 6—PPG6—"Town Centres and Retail Developments" sets out our planning policies for retail development. A major aim of the guidance is to sustain or enhance the viability and vitality of town centres.

The urban block of grants, particularly city challenge, will continue to provide assistance for local shopping schemes.

The single regeneration budget, which will be introduced on 1 April 1994, will provide flexible support for regeneration and development in England in a way that meets local needs and priorities.