Another chance to have your say

Housing minister Caroline Flint this weekannounced more chances for the public to have their say about the proposed Ford eco-town.

She said she wanted to ensure that all voices were heard in the debate about the first new towns in the UK for more than 40 years.

"We are running a rigorous process to decide which locations are selected to go forward to the next stage," said Ms Flint.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

"Proposals which do not deliver real benefits and do not meet the highest possible standards will not get through our scrutiny.

"The process is open, transparent and inclusive and we are testing every detail of the proposals with local authorities, stakeholders and local communities themselves. Within the lively debate about eco-towns and housing growth more generally, I do want to ensure that all voices can be heard.

"We must not forget that, whether it is in eco-towns or growth in existing settlements, we need more homes. Public consultation cannot be about who shouts the loudest."

Her comments came as the first phase of consultation held by the Department for Communities and Local Government about the Ford scheme ended on Monday.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

The second phase on the plans to deliver more affordable homes and tackle climate change will involve a series of roadshows by the government. This will visit Ford this summer on a date yet to be revealed to provide further information about the scheme to the public and to listen to their views.

A further three months of public consultation will follow as well as a detailed sustainability assessment on Ford as a potential location. This will provide greater detail about the suitability of Ford from an environmental point of view and test it against alternatives.

A draft planning policy statement will also be produced to create the framework in which a planning application for the eco-town can be considered. This is intended to ensure it meets the highest standards, with the best bus and train links and strong job opportunities. The appraisal and statement will be published this month.

What do you think? Click here to send a letter or leave a comment below.

Click here to go back to Chichester news

Click here to go back to Bognor Regis news

Click here to go back to Midhurst and Petworth news

To tell us where in the world you are reading this story click on the link below to add yourself to our readers' map.

MAP