Cars driving in so-called ‘eco-towns’ will have to stick to 15mph speed limits, it has been revealed.
Whereas many villages and towns are now imposing 20mph limits the town centres of the new environmental settlements are set to go one better.
The proposals are being put forward to minimise the environmental impact on the settlements and while the town centres will be car-free, the 15mph limit will be imposed on ‘key roads’ leading into them.
It is understood that over 50 bids have now been put forward by companies to create the zero-carbon developments.
Housing minister Caroline Flint is expected to set out the standards for the settlements later this week along with a shortlist of 10 new eco-towns.
Ms Flint told reporters: 'These developments will be exemplars for the rest of the world, not just the rest of the country.
'It's critical that we get it right - and I make no apology for setting the bar as high as possible.
‘We have a unique opportunity to deliver a programme which will genuinely revolutionise the way people live.’
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