§ Mr. CorbynTo ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster if he will ask the Property Services Agency for a report on the expenditure on Archway Tower, Junction Road, London N19; and what plans they have for its future use or demolition. [13500]
§ Dr. David ClarkResponsibility for this matter has been delegated under the terms of the Framework Document to the Property Advisers to the Civil Estate. I have asked its Chief Executive, Mr. John Locke, to write to my hon. Friend.
Letter from John Locke to Mr. Jeremy Corbyn, dated 31 October 1997:
The Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster has asked me to reply to your question about Archway Tower. You will be aware from previous letters from Mr Borrett of the level of rental and security costs. Since your last question it has become apparent that remedial works to the cladding are required and our agents estimate that this could cost up to £0.5m.Every effort has been made to surrender this property to the landlords for an economic cost however we have been unable to secure any agreement with them. The lease does not permit demolition.2WThe property continues to be marketed by our agents. We are receiving some interest now for office occupation and complete refurbishment proposals are being examined. I am afraid that this interest is still in the early stages and I am unable to predict whether it will lead to occupation.Archway Tower has also been considered for temporary use by the homeless, but was thought to be in the wrong position and too costly to convert.