Arun council'wrong' to reject Ford's eco-town

Rod Hague, of the Ford Airfield Vision Group, said Arun District Council's decision to totally reject any prospect of an eco-town around the Ford was flawed.

'We at the Ford Airfield Vision Group are convinced the airfield is the best and most sustainable site for new and affordable homes in Arun.

'It was clear at the council meeting that a number of misconceptions exist, which has led to over-inflated housing numbers being put forward.'

The group would soon start a publicity push to make sure everyone was aware of the true facts, he stated on Tuesday.

He continued: 'Public engagement and consultation remains at the heart of our approach to regenerating Ford airfield. If selected for the eco-town programme, we will work closely with the local community.'

The group's intention is to create a new community providing 5,000 '˜green' homes, 4,000 skilled jobs, a secondary school and two new primary schools. Local shops, health and community facilities will be provided as well.

All the energy for the homes will come from new on-site renewable sources such as biomass and biogas and the properties would be built to the highest energy efficient standards.

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