Page last updated at 10:44 GMT, Friday, 27 February 2009

Deadline on eco-town say extended

Weston Front action group protest
There has been widespread opposition to the eco-town proposals

The government has allowed more time for residents living near the two sites of the proposed eco-town developments in Oxfordshire to have their say.

The two areas being considered for development in the county are in Weston Otmoor and land near Bicester.

Construction is scheduled to begin on selected sites by 2020.

There has been widespread criticism of the scheme, with some of the projects being abandoned and facing legal challenges.

Ministers said the aim was to make the most of "green" technology and have a high proportion of affordable housing.

The housing minister, Margaret Beckett, has announced that the deadline for public consultation will be extended till the end of April.

She said that the issue has raised strong opinions on all sides and that she wants all parties, irrespective of their views, to use the opportunity to have their say.



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