Views sought at eco-town roadshow

The project has been met with opposition from local people

A roadshow has been hosted by the government to gather opinions on proposals for an eco-town in Leicestershire.

Plans for the new town in Pennbury have evoked strong debate about its location and just how "green" it is.

The Co-operative Group wants to build a a 15,000-home settlement on a small airfield site south of Leicester.

Government officials were on hand to record views at the roadshow, at the Highcross Shopping Centre.

Last month Leicester City Council said it would back plans for the new town in Pennbury as long as certain conditions were met.

Communities 'sidelined'

Speaking on behalf of Cascet - the group set up to oppose the Pennbury plans - Kevin Feltham said they were very concerned about the short notice given about the roadshow.

"Communities in Leicestershire that will be affected by the proposed eco-town are being sidelined and excluded from this aspect of the consultation process.

"There are further concerns about the lack of transport infrastructure, the destruction of the landscape character and effect on wildlife, the risk of flooding and the lack of details about employment within the new town.

"The economic impact on Oadby and Leicester could be catastrophic," he said.

The Department for Communities and Local Government said further roadshow events were planned for early 2009.

Detailed plans unveiled by the Co-operative Group revealed proposals for seven primary schools, two secondary schools and £5m for a tram system feasibility study.

A final decision is expected from the government early next year.