New appeal against eco-towns

Local Government Chronicle Plus
Simon Ellery

Better Accessible Responsible Development (BARD) has applied to appeal against the ruling by Mr Justic Walker that the government consultation on its shortlist document Eco-towns: Living a greener future was lawful.

BARD's application contends that the principle of eco-towns and key criteria ere not properly and lawfully consulted upon in the housing green paper.

The group claim that the failure to consult on the 42 sites rejected from the April 2008 shortlist was unlawful while the government has not provided adequate information to enable "intelligent" consultation on the proposed locations.

David Bliss, chairman of the BARD Campaign, said:
"We were disappointed with Mr Justice Walker's ruling. It can surely be beyond doubt that the information provided by the government on eco-towns has been confused, flawed and inadequate, thereby making it impossible for ordinary members of the public to engage in serious consultation.

"It is regrettable that we now rely on the Court of Appeal for us to be given an opportunity to consult on the principle and key criteria for new environmentally-friendly affordable settlements. Local opinions should be heard."

Further reports:
Birmingham Post
Planning magazine