Mr. Robert AinsworthTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what plans he has to investigate the events surrounding the redevelopment of the block bounded by Baker street, Blandford street, George street and Manchester street in Westminster and if he will make a statement.
§ Sir Paul BeresfordThe Secretary of State has no plans at present.
Mr. Robert AinsworthTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what representations have been made to him over the redevelopment of the block bounded by Blandford street, Manchester street, George street and Baker street in Westminster, and if he will make a statement.
§ Sir Paul BeresfordThe chief executive of Westminster city council has written to the Secretary of State about this matter and I an considering the issues raised.
Mr. Robert AinsworthTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment if the listed buildings on the block bounded by Baker street, George street, Blandford street and Manchester street in Westminster, were de-listed prior to their demolition or modification.
§ Sir Paul BeresfordListing and de-listing of buildings is now the responsibility of the Secretary of State for National Heritage. However, I understand that no listed buildings have, in fact, been deliberately demolished in the block concerned. Two listed buildings collapsed but have been reinstated following grant of listed building consent.
Mr. Robert AinsworthTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what plans he has to enforce the decision made by his predecessor in 1981 that the block 535W bounded by Baker street, Manchester street, Blandford street and George street in Westminster should be preserved.
§ Sir Paul BeresfordNone. In the event of a breach of planning or listed building control, responsibility for day to day enforcement rests with the local planning authority.