Eco-town protesters give evidence to panel

Steve Hayes
Stratford Observer

Representatives from BARD (Better Accessible Responsible Development) appeared before the review panel who will advise the Government on the feasibility of the plans.

They claim the planned development, near Long Marston, is 'unsustainable' and argue it is not compatible with the areas Regional Spatial Strategy, a document which, when finalised, will govern overall planning until 2021.

The campaigners told the panel, which met in Wolverhampton, the eco-town would be unsustainable because it would still require high levels of car usage.

They also said it is not economically viable and would damage the tranquility of the area and that there are alternative sites which are far more viable.

David Bliss, BARD chairman, said: "We are confident that the panel, mindful of strategic growth and investment in the region, will recognise, alongside all other neutral observers, that Long Marston is entirely the wrong location for an eco-town."

Last week shadow environment secretary Nick Herbert joined several high profile opponents to speak out against the development.

Following the examination, the panel will report to the Government on how the strategy might be improved before the Government issues proposed changes taking into account their recommendations.

In addition to the review, London’s Appeal Court was yesterday (Wednesday) due to hear BARD's application for permission to appeal against judicial review findings which earlier this year ruled the Government had not acted illegally during the initial consultation process.

David Bliss said: "We we remain convinced that the consultation on eco-towns was insufficient, ineffective and inequitable. It seems the Government’s view is given we might not like the answers, we’d better not ask the questions. That’s no way to run a democracy, let alone a consultation process."

Also read: The Evesham Journal report