I recently came across the site http://ecotownsyoursay.direct.gov.uk/ outlining plans for the development of a number of new 'eco-towns' across the UK. I was quite suprised I hadn't come across the proposals before, given the scale and significance of such a project.
There are currently 12 sites shortlisted for the development of eco-towns, due to be narrowed down further some time in 2009. Each town will have 5000-10000 homes and aim to exemplify what can be achieved in ters of greener societies. Needless to say the prospect is quite exciting, having the potential to set a benchmark for the development of communities in the UK and even globally.
What did worry me slightly was that it seems not many other people are aware of the project either. This is based on the figures for the 'my eco-town' section of the site, probably one of the most interesting sections, which allows visitors to choose what standards they feel would be most important in the dvelopment of eco-towns. So far there have only been 409 responses, and it's probably fair to assume some people may have had more than one go. It doesn't seem an awful lot for such a potentially important project.
Still, it should be interesting to see what the outcome is. It would be great if the project was a success and we could develop a blueprint for greener communities in the future. Whatever happens I guess the deveopers should take heart that they can't do much worse than urban tower blocks, probably the last major attempt at innovation in housing in the UK...
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