Wide-ranging new coalition backs eco-towns

A coalition of organisations working in environment and social justice is now fighting in support of eco-towns and highlighting the benefits the settlements could bring.
The coalition is issuing a rallying statement, saying it believes eco-towns provide the opportunity to build homes and places of the highest design and environmental standards, providing blueprints that can be used to influence future developments.
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Watchdog reviews eco-town proposal

A watchdog has been launched in Leicestershire to meet with developers over a controversial eco-town plan. “Pennbury” is one of 15 earmarked sites to make a Government shortlist, of which 10 will be given the go-ahead. But the proposed 15,000-home development, for land near Stoughton, has sparked fierce protests from residents who say it would put too much strain on local roads and services.
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Eco town dwellers may be monitored for green habits

Residents of the planned eco towns in England could face strict monitoring of their travel habits, home insulation and even wasted food, to ensure they are truly living a “green” lifestyle. Experts advising the government on its plans to build up to 10 eco towns by 2020, yesterday called for ministers to toughen environmental standards for the developments with monitoring to ensure their carbon footprint is three times smaller than the British average.
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