Norfolk partnership proposes alternate eco-town site

A Norfolk village that could be more suitable as a site for a zero carbon eco-town than the former RAF base at Coltishall has been proposed by a partnership of councils.

The suggested site at Rackheath is more sustainable, claims the Greater Norwich Development Partnership and its use would involve local stakeholders more than the existing plan.

The new site is better suited to meet eco-town standards, which include a zero-carbon requirement for the development and efficient transport links to minimise the use of cars.

Steve Morphew, leader of Norwich City Council, said: "Rackheath is a much better option than Coltishall for meeting the government’s eco-town objectives.

"It is better prepared to shoulder new infrastructure and the local landowners are ready for development."

Housing minister Caroline Flint welcomed the proposal. She said: "We think this proposal has a lot of potential and it will now be rigorously assessed alongside the other bids to ensure only those with the highest standards make it through to the final short list."

Eco-homes costing less than £500,000 which are zero-carbon through the use of ground source heat pumps renewable energy and other energy saving measures will be eligible for a stamp duty exemption until 2012.