End of consultation on new towns

Eleven sites have been shortlisted for eco-towns

The public consultation into plans to build a so-called eco-town in Oxfordshire has come to an end.

The government is considering proposals for more than 15,000 homes at Weston Otmoor, near Weston-on-the-Green, or at a site north-west of Bicester.

Ministers will make a decision on proposals for 11 sites across the UK in the summer.

There will be a further consultation once planning applications are submitted for the new towns.

The standards for eco-towns will include achieving zero carbon status across all the town's buildings, providing a minimum of 30% social housing and creating more options for travel so that residents are able to make the majority of their journeys without a car, going instead by public transport, walking or cycling.

Developers will also be asked to improve the standards for household waste recycling, construction waste, water efficiency and reducing pollution.

The Weston Otmoor site was given a low rating in a sustainability study and the housing minister said it would only be suitable with "substantial and exceptional innovation".

Local campaigners are determined to remain vigilant.

Alan Cotton, from campaign group Weston Front, said: "Until it is officially ruled out we will continue to point out the serious flaws in this ill-conceived idea."

Cherwell District Council has also put forward alternative plans for 5,000 houses in north-west Bicester.

Housing Minister Ian Wright encouraged everyone affected by eco-towns to comment on the plans by the end of the day, but said people would be able to comment again if an area is selected as a possible eco-town site in the summer.