Greenbelt building decision slammed

28 March 2000



Greenbelt building decision slammed

ENVIRONMENTAL groups and opposition politicians have attacked John Prescotts decision to permit housebuilding on Cambridges green belt.

The deputy prime minister paved the way for Britains first substantial new town in 30 years to be built outside the city, reports the Financial Times.

It will accommodate the rapid growth of high-tech industries in the area.

Shadow environment secretary Archie Norman said: “No green belt in Britain is safe.”

The Council for the Protection of Rural England said the move signified a failure to achieve balanced growth and prevent overheating in the south-east.

• The Financial Times 28/03/2000 page 1