09 November 2007
A government scheme to create ten eco-towns by 2020 has been more than five times oversubscribed.
More than 50 applications were submitted by local authorities and developers wishing to build the low-carbon developments, Gordon Brown announced this week.
The prime minister was speaking on November 6 after the Queen's Speech confirmed that eco-towns are to form part of a new Housing and Regeneration Bill.
The Bill will also lead to the creation of the Homes and Communities Agency, which will fund affordable housing and regeneration schemes, and a new independent regulator, the Office for Tenants and Social Landlords.
A separate Planning Bill will include proposals for speeding up the planning system. A new commission is to be set up to take decisions on major infrastructure projects.
Housing minister Yvette Cooper said eco-towns would be the first new towns for several generations. 'New homes will be greener to tackle the challenge of climate change,' she added.
Paul Bettison, chair of the Local Government Association's environment board, said eco-towns should aim to reduce carbon emissions further by reducing unnecessary travel. He welcomed the Homes and Communities Agency but said it must work closely with councils rather than 'impose its own agenda which may run contrary to local opinion'.
David Orr, chief executive of the National Housing Federation, said ministers should have embarked on the proposed house-building programme years ago.
'It looks like Gordon Brown's government is moving in the right direction,' he said.
PFnov2007