§ Mr. ChidgeyTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions when he plans to issue a new Planning Policy Guidance notice concerning playing fields. [125926]
§ Ms Beverley HughesI hope to publish a draft revision of Planning Policy Guidance note 17 (PPG17) on sport and recreation for consultation shortly. This will update the existing guidance on playing fields.
§ Mr. ChidgeyTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what is the total number of valid applications he has received for the sale of playing fields in each month since October 1998. [125927]
§ Ms Beverley HughesThe Secretary of State's consent to the disposal of land by local authorities under their general powers is required only where they wish to do so at less than the best reasonably obtainable consideration, which is normally open market value Six applications for consent for the sale of playing fields have been received since October 1998.