§ Mr. Paul MarsdenTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions if he will make a statement on the progress made with the Flaxmill project in Ditherington, Shrewsbury. [157599]
§ Ms Beverley HughesThe Flaxmill project is for the restoration and refurbishment of a unique grade I listed and historically significant structure in the county town, i.e. the first iron-framed building in the world. The project is to create development space for retail, educational, arts and leisure and residential uses. Advantage West Midlands is to make a significant contribution to the project of some £2.8 million over a three-year period.
A certificate of title as proof of ownership, a condition of the funding agreement with Advantage West Midlands, was still outstanding at 9 April 2001. Contracts were due to be exchanged in February 2001. But the outstanding matter, together with a delay in the completion of legal documentation between Mowlem Midlands, the joint developer and works contractor, and the owner of the site, meant that this was not possible.
I understand that discussions are continuing between the parties involved to ensure progress on the project is secured.