[sustran] UK: Carfree centres, speed limits of 15mph on roads in new "eco-towns".

[Todd Edelman, Green Idea Factory]

  <http://www.guardian.co.uk/uk/feedarticle/7408328>

15mph speed plan for 'eco-towns'

Speed limits of 15mph are to be introduced on roads in new "eco-towns".

The new restriction is among a number of proposals designed to minimise 
the environmental impact of 10 proposed settlements.

Developers have submitted more than 50 bids to create the zero-carbon 
developments, and later this week housing minister Caroline Flint will 
set out standards expected of them.

The new town centres are to be car-free, and the 15mph limit will be 
enforced on "key roads" leading into them, government sources said.

No definite date has been set for the announcement of the shortlist of 
10 new towns, but it is expected in the coming weeks.

Ministers also plan to reduce car use drastically in the new towns by 
providing extensive public transport.

Developers are expected to be told that each home in the eco-towns must 
be within 400 metres of a public transport stop and 800 metres of shops.

Last month Ms Flint said she wanted to see towns designed around 
pedestrians, cyclists and public transport users, emulating the "most 
ambitious European models" where only 50% of households have a car.

Environmental protesters have criticised the eco-towns scheme for 
focusing too narrowly on carbon emissions and not giving adequate 
consideration to other ecological issues, such as the impact building 
would have on wildlife.

Up to five eco-towns are expected to be built by 2016, and as many as 10 
by 2020. They will have populations of around 5,000 to 20,000 and be 
linked to larger towns and cities.

Copyright (c) Press Association Ltd. 2008, All Rights Reserved.

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Todd Edelman
Director
Green Idea Factory

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