from Cllr David Morson

Eco Towns

When Caroline Flint visited Uttlesford District Council to discuss the Proposed Elsenham Eco Town Site, the presentation by Fairfield was totally unconvincing. They were definite about providing 50% of the employment in the new town on site. Yet when questioned about which employers had agreed to come to the town, not one name could be given. On transport, the stated they would introduce an extra bus service and provide traffic calming measures, but could give no details on costings nor had there been any liason with Essex County Council. They also displayed no knowledge of any local roads. The great benefit of holding Farmer’s Co Operative Markets after concreting over acres of arable farmland to produce the town seemed more than farcical..

The Minister was not impressed and warned them that she expected to see serious engagement with the local community in the Autumn.

John Mitchell acting Chief Executive gave an excellent presentation which politely demonstrated that there was no requirement for an Eco Town in Uttlesford as the 4,200 houses imposed through the Local Development Framework would more that adequately deal with immediate affordable home targets for the District. The Minister congratulated Uttlesford for making such speedy progress with the LDF in comparison with many other District Authorities and said the allocation of 3,000 houses in the Council’s Preferred Option was "helpful".