China's Dongtan demise is mirrored by bad news for Britain's eco-towns

The failure of Dongtan, which has been praised by Gordon Brown as a vision of the future, raises questions about Britain's plans for similar eco-towns. Click here for more...

Brown's army to tackle climate change?

Gordon Brown announces large numbers of draught-proofers to provide jobs, aid the poor, and help the environment. I wonder if this has something to do with this? www.tescoinsulation.com

Trains, pains and automobiles

I occasionally commute from Ford, so if you think the A27 is rammed at peak times you want to try the 'South Coast Cattle Cart Express', and this situation looks like it will get worse. Southern Railways increased the number of trains and carriages last year, however, this has had no impact on overcrowded trains. Those who settle in the ‘Eco-Town’ at Ford will increase passenger numbers further as they commute back to their old jobs around Sussex and beyond. That is if they cannot find work at the humorously imaginative 'Technology Park’ of course.

Half the residents of the Eco-Town won’t be allowed to own cars, so they will need a reliable and cheap mode of transport. Ford is served by less trains than Bognor and Littlehampton - so, unless Ford station is upgraded (which is a big IF), the people living in the Eco-Town could end up with very poor commuting options. Oh, and has anyone mentioned the cost? An annual season ticket between Ford and Brighton will set you back £1,664 or Ford to Victorica £3,400 - not a cheap or convenient option for those living in Yapton and Ford already struggling on a low income... Sally!!! Get me cart oot!!!

UK has 'pent-up housing demand'

Now that Gordon has sorted out his credit crunch, his 'one' political eye is now focussed on that big labour issue, housing! Mr Brown told a city audience the US and Spain had "overbuilt" homes during the years of rising prices. In contrast the UK had "pent-up demand" because not enough had been built. This item has more questions than answers...

Moving the goal post again...

The government is considering not using the Code for Sustainable Homes for its contentious eco towns scheme. According to an item in 'Building' magazine last Friday, draft guidance, written by external consultants for the communities department, suggests that the new eco homes should instead be measured against a European model of energy output per square metre. Click her for more...