04 July 2008
Almost half of voters back eco-towns as a way of tackling the shortage of affordable housing, says a government survey.
But support for the controversial developments falls from 46% to 34% when people are asked if they want an eco-town built within five miles of their home.
The YouGov survey, published by the Department for Communities and Local Government on June 30, is an attempt by ministers to fight back in the increasingly fractious eco-town debate and counter residents' protests at many of the short-listed sites.
Just 9% of the 1,693 adults surveyed were opposed to eco-towns. Asked if they would support an eco-town within five miles of where they live, 15% said no. In each case, about one-third of people had no opinion.
Housing minister Caroline Flint said all voices should be heard – not just those who shout the loudest. 'We are running a rigorous process to decide which locations are selected,' she said.
The government will publish an appraisal of each location and a planning policy statement, followed by a final short list in the autumn.
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