Lib Dems Object to Marston Eco-Town

9.30.00am BST (GMT +0100) Sun 6th Jul 2008

Bedford Borough Liberal Democrats, who this week raised their objections to the proposed Marston Eco-town with the Government, believe all new housing developments should be built to the highest standards of environmental sustainability

Responding to the Government's Consultation on Eco-Towns, Bedford Borough Lib Dems have objected to the proposed development for the Northern Marston Vale. The submission also calls for all new housing developments to be built to high standards of environmental sustainability, and not just a select few eco-towns.

The group's response to the consultation outlines the reasons for its opposition to the proposed Marston Eco-Town:

• The scale of existing planned development in the area. There is no need for additional housing on top of the large amount already proposed for the Marston Vale.

• The prospect of over-development for the area. The identity of existing villages must be retained and distinct settled communities must not be merged.

• The impact upon local infrastructure.

• The impact upon transport locally.

On the issue of the development of the eco-towns concept, the group submitted the following points:

• All new housing developments should be genuinely sustainable and meet high environmental standards. The highest standards of environmental sustainability should not be applied only to a select few eco-towns.

• New, high quality employment is essential for any new development. High quality employment must be delivered as a first principle of any development, to avoid forcing residents to commute long distances and increasing traffic levels.