1
Aug
Eco-towns 'making progress'
An independent panel has found that eco-towns are making clear
progress.
The Eco-Town Challenge Panel, which is made up of experts in
sustainability and urban development, was set up by housing
minister Caroline Flint.
Its report stated that many of the bidders have responded
positively to its first set of recommendations, but called for a
number of further improvements to transport and employment
strategies for some of the proposed eco-towns.
Commenting on the study, Ms Flint said: "There are no done deals
and only the best quality schemes with very high sustainability
standards will qualify for eco-town status."
Chairman of the Eco-Town Challenge Panel John Walker added that it
is now up to the proposers to take their advice and decide how to
use it.
Last month, the government sought to answer criticism of eco-towns
by putting forward new proposals to ensure that they will adhere to
high green standards.
