HC Deb 16 October 2002 vol 390 c894W
Mr. Todd

To ask the Deputy Prime Minister what planning guidance is given to local authorities to permit the maintenance and development of small rural communities. [71956]

Mr. McNulty

National Planning Policy Guidance encourages local planning authorities to promote healthy, viable rural communities and advises that most new development in rural areas should be focused on accessible local service centres, which may include a group of small villages.