Written question asked by Eddie McGrady (Social Democratic & Labour Party) on Thursday, 21 January 1999, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 1 February 1999. It was answered by Lord Murphy of Torfaen (Labour) on Monday, 1 February 1999 on behalf of the Northern Ireland Office.

Northern Ireland Office;Planning Service

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, when work is planned to commence on the new Down Area Plan; and what consultation will be held in respect of it. - Text of letter from T W Stewart, Chief Executive of Planning Service.

Answer: Mr. McGrady: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland when work is planned to commence on the new Down Area Plan; and what consultation will be held in respect of it. [67751] Mr. Paul Murphy: Responsibility for these issues has been delegated to the Planning Service under its chief executive, Mr. T. W. Stewart. I have asked him to arrange for a reply to be given. Letter from T. W. Stewart to Mr. Eddie McGrady dated 29 January 1999: The Secretary of State has asked me to reply to your recent Question about the commencement of work on the Down Area Plan. I can confirm that work on the Ards/Down Area Plan commenced in December 1998. Throughout the Plan preparation process there will be opportunities for regular consultation with both Ards and Down District Councils in accordance with a programme to be agreed with each of them. There will also be ongoing consultation with a range of statutory consultees and, at key stages of the project, community groups, interested parties and members of the general public will also be consulted. I do hope this clarifies the position.

Secondary information