Eco town protesters vow to fight on

Stratford Observer

STOP The Eco Town protesters have vowed to 'fight on' despite losing their High Court challenge over Government plans to build over 6,000 homes outside Stratford.

Town campaigners last week admitted they were 'devastated' after their high-profile legal appeal was thrown out.

Better Accessible and Responsible Development (BARD), the protest group fighting proposals, applied for the judicial review arguing the scheme was legally flawed.

But, on January 27 Mr Justice Walker ruled the government had 'acted properly' throughout the consultation period which had been 'lawful'.

Coun Mike Brain, representing the district council's Quinton Ward where the proposed new town could be built, said the team of campaigners would continue.

"Yes, we're disappointed we didn't win the judicial review at first instance.

"However, as concerned residents with valid and well-considered objections we're not that easily put off."

Coun Brain told us Mr Justice Walker believed the government provided enough information for locals to mull over eco town plans.

"I think I speak for many in saying that we, on the front line, beg to differ."

He demanded details on an expected finance report, wanted the evidence to support the town's eco credentials and asked why the government seemed determined to push ahead with the plans despite evidence that a small number of affordable homes is needed in each rural village rather than all on one site.

"If the parishes, district councils, county Councils and regional assembly do not believe an eco-town in this area is needed, on what basis does the government support Long Marston's continued shortlisting," he added.

"Whilst the High Court may have let them off the hook in round one of our legal challenges, the government will be under no illusion that paying lip service to consultation is no way to run a mature democracy.

"Local residents rightly wishing to explore an eco town proposal deserve better. I intend to make sure they get it."