Minister to look at eco-town plan

A government minister is visiting Lincolnshire to view plans for a 5,000 home eco-town.

Housing minister Caroline Flint is looking at plans for the shortlisted development at Manby, near Louth.

Some residents are opposed to the proposal as they claim the local infrastructure will not cope with it.

East Lindsey District Council has said it will consult with the public on the plans but urged people to consider the investment opportunity.

'Great opportunity'

The idea is part of a government programme to create 10 carbon neutral settlements across the country.

Derek Turner, who lives in Theddlethorpe, said: "I'm not anti-eco-towns in principle. The problem with this proposal is there are far too many [homes] and it is in the wrong place.

"Housing should be placed where there are existing settlements with good infrastructure and good transport."

District Council spokesman Ian Bustin said people should not immediately dismiss the idea.

"What we're saying is let's take the opportunity to look at something like this and see if there's something in it for East Lindsey.

"It's a great opportunity for housing. It's a great opportunity for investment."