§ Mr. Ieuan Wyn JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what steps he intends taking to protect town centre shopping facilities in Wales. [27445]
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§ Mr. Win GriffithsGovernment planning policy on retailing and town centres is set out in "Planning Guidance (Wales) Planning Policy" published in May 1996. This includes a commitment to sustain and enhance town centres and established tests for new retail development which favour town centres sites. A revised version of "Planning Guidance (Wales) Planning Policy" is now being prepared following consultation and it is intended that this will emphasise the need to safeguard and promote town centre shopping.