Oral Answers to Questions

David Williams Excerpts

Thursday 12th November 2026 Commons Chamber

[Ian Murray]

That is an issue for the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, and we have been working closely with that Department about its planning proposals. I am sure that the right hon. Lady will be not be disappointed when they come forward.

[David Williams (Stoke-on-Trent North) (Lab)]

T5. Across Stoke-on-Trent North and Kidsgrove, we have some of the most incredible heritage buildings, such as the Queen’s theatre, the Burslem indoor market and the Wedgwood Institute, so I welcome the recent announcement of over £2.5 million from the derelict buildings fund for Stoke-on-Trent, for which I campaigned. Will the Minister outline how her Department can work alongside other Departments, such as the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, to bring our beautiful buildings back into use?

[Stephanie Peacock]

My hon. Friend is right to talk about stronger co-ordination between heritage planning, regeneration and housing policy. I know how important heritage-led regeneration is for local growth, and I understand that the Heritage Minister is looking forward to holding a roundtable on that issue in my hon. Friend’s area.