The Town and Country Planning Association (TCPA) has welcomed plans outlined by the government to consult local authorities over the development of the country's new eco towns.

Prime Minister Gordon Brown has set a target of building ten new eco towns - each comprising up to 20,000 zero carbon homes - as part of the UK's continued commitment to reducing carbon dioxide emissions.

Energy conserving technologies such as double glazing insulation and draught proofing are universally regarded as desirable green features, but many local communities have expressed reservations about the roll-out of on-site renewable energy supplies such as wind farms.

Welcoming the government's assurance that all communities and councils will be closely involved in the decision-making process, TCPA chief executive Gideon Amos said that sustainability targets should be rooted in local debate and approved by residents.

He added: "To take forward the sustainable housing growth agenda we must share experiences and learn lessons from our existing eco communities, both in the UK and abroad."

Government statistics reveal that the country's existing housing stock is responsible for 27 per cent of all UK carbon emissions.

© Adfero Ltd

Author:  Joanne McCabe

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