Further consultation on eco-towns

Housing minister Caroline Flint has announced the second phase of consultation on the government's eco-town proposals is to begin.

It is hoped a series of roadshows taking place around the shortlisted sites will provide further information to the public, allowing ministers to listen to the publics' views.

The process is expected to take a further three months, on top of the detailed sustainability assessment on the potential locations; and a draft planning policy statement on eco-towns.

"We are running a rigorous process to decide which locations are selected to go forward to the next stage - proposals which do not deliver real benefits and do not meet the highest possible standards will not get through our scrutiny," explained Ms Flint.

"The process is open, transparent and inclusive and we are testing every detail of the proposals with local authorities, stakeholders and local communities themselves."

Prime minister Gordon Brown announced proposals for the new settlements shortly after coming to power in July 2007.

Initially planned for five towns, the proposals have since seen the number of towns doubled to ten – with 15 locations still under consideration.

The decision on the final locations is expected to be taken later this year.

"Within the lively debate about eco-towns and housing growth more generally, I do want to ensure that all voices can be heard," continued Ms Flint.

"We must not forget that whether it is in eco-towns or growth in existing settlements, we desperately need more homes.

"Public consultation cannot be about who shouts loudest."

Eco-towns are intended as a combined response to the challenges around climate change, the need for more sustainable living and the urgent need to increase housing supply for families and first-time buyers.

However, they have proved controversial with residents anxious to ensure they do not become a burden on existing locations.

The Campaign for the Protection of Rural England (CPRE) is today protesting at parliament urging ministers to "go back to the drawing board" with the proposals.

Chris O'Toole