Eco-town challenged

The future of a shortlisted eco-town proposal looks uncertain this week as campaigners against the build began a legal challenge.

The Better Accessible Responsible Development (Bard) group has taken issue with government plans to erect 6,000 new homes near Stratford-upon-Avon in Warwickshire.

In its judicial review application, Bard is calling for the site to be removed from the list, arguing a new town will destroy the historic area and put a strain on jobs, transport and local services.

However, a communities and local government spokesman insists: "We don't believe there is any basis for a legal challenge. Given the clear and transparent process set-out and the fact we are still at this early stage, it's hard to understand what this group is trying to judicially review."

As the eco-town initiative looks increasingly unstable, self-build properties could become a popular alternative for those seeking greener homes.

Housing minister Caroline Flint has already threatened to pull the plug on any eco-town proposals that fail to meet the "highest possible standards for sustainability".