Marston Vale & New Marston In Eco-towns' Shortlist
Posted by Nadine Dorries, MP for Mid Bedfordshire, at 14:00, Tue 22 April 2008:
I recently took part in a conference call with the Minister for Housing and Planning, Caroline Flint MP, to discuss the government's announcement that the Marston Vale and New Marston have been short listed as one of 15 locations for the first new eco-towns. Up to 15,400 homes would be built on both brown and greenfield land south of Bedford, as part of the proposals. It is 40 years since the government announced the creation of new towns in England.
The Minister informed me that 10 of the 15 sites short listed for the new eco-towns will be finalised in the next six months. It is vitally important that local residents use the 12 week consultation process to make their views known on this proposal.
My main concern is the need for substantial investment in new infrastructure such as improved roads, better transport links and enhanced public transport. Eco-towns need eco-infrastructure at the same time, to prevent people spending hours of their time stuck in traffic jams, as they try to get to their carbon neutral homes. I am all in favour of moves to tackle the challenge of climate change, this is why I am calling on the government to take a more joined up approach to this issue.
The development of sustainable and environmentally friendly communities must be considered in a holistic manner.
I have also been advised that the government plans to form a panel of experts who will subject potential developers to tough tests before they win the right to build the towns.
Any new towns proposed will have to go through the normal planning process, and that local people and other interested bodies will have the right to challenge the plans.
However, I am interested to know the views of residents in Mid Beds on this proposal - if you have any thoughts or views on this, or any other issues then please get in contact with me in the usual way.
Write to me at: Nadine Dorries MP House of Commons London SW1A 0AA
Telephone me on: 020 7219 4239
Fax me on: 020 7219 6428
Email me at: dorriesn@parliament.uk
Visit my website at: www.dorries.org.uk
Nadine
Nadine Dorries MP Member of Parliament for Mid-Bedfordshire
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