Written question asked by Lord Redwood (Conservative) on Monday, 16 July 2007, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 18 July 2007. It was answered by Derek Twigg (Labour) on Tuesday, 24 July 2007 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Arborfield Garrison

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence whether his Department plans to seek planning permission for more housing development at Arborfield Garrison prior to disposal of surplus property and land.

Answer: The Ministry of Defence is required to obtain market value when disposing of surplus assets. Officials work closely with English Partnerships, regional development agencies, local authorities and other key stakeholders when considering its disposal strategy. This will often include an assessment of development and regeneration opportunities which can be taken forward by prospective purchasers.Currently we are promoting the surplus land holdings at Arborfield Garrison within the emerging Local Development Framework for a residential-led mixed use re-development. This may lead to a planning application being made by MOD prior to disposal of the land.

Secondary information