HC Deb 13 March 2000 vol 346 cc13-4W
Mr. Fearn

To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what assessment his Department has made of the impact of the plans for the partial pedestrianisation of Trafalgar Square on the Square's potential to attract tourists and Londoners. [113643]

Mr. Alan Howarth

The partial pedestrianisation of Trafalgar Square is included in Phase 1 of the wider "World Squares for All" master plan. Public consultation on the master plan, for which the new Mayor for London will take over lead responsibility later this year, has shown widespread public support. Further extensive public consultation is currently under way on the detailed proposals for Phase 1, which aim to improve access for pedestrians and provide greater enjoyment of Trafalgar Square and adjoining areas. Londoners and visitors alike will benefit from improved accessibility of the National Gallery.