Council doubts over eco-town plan

The project has been met with opposition from local people

A council has expressed doubt about the location of a proposed eco-town in Leicestershire, it has been revealed.

An in-depth report by Leicestershire County Council into plans for the new town at Pennbury highlights concerns about the choice of the site.

The Co-operative Group wants to build a a 15,000-home settlement in the area which lies south-east of Leicester.

Pennbury is one of 15 eco-towns plans shortlisted by the government of which up to 10 may be given the go-ahead.

Road network

Councillor Peter Roffey said: "The panel believes that there is considerable merit in the principle of an eco-town and commends the approach to sustainability and high environmental standards.

"However, questions have emerged as to whether Pennbury is the right location - the area has been rejected for major development in the Regional Plan, partly because of its very poor links to the strategic road network.

"There are also serious reservations about whether the public transport proposals and the plans to create new jobs can actually be delivered."

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

Several local protest groups which claim the proposal will ruin the greenbelt in the area have been formed to oppose the development.

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 later this year.