eco-towns illustrations

Freiburg, Germany

The Vauban development has been built on the site of a former barracks, and has dormitory rooms for around 600 students alongside the houses and apartments. It's been designed to be a child and family friendly neighbourhood, and today, 20% of residents are under ten. It is also a "district of short distances." Shops, schools, parks and businesses are all easily accessible, and 600 jobs are within walking or cycling distance.

Almost half of the homes are car-free, encouraged by good public transport and a car sharing scheme. These are all low energy homes, relying on large numbers of solar panels. Many homes actually produce more energy than they use. Home owners have also benefited from energy saving tips and DIY sessions run by the developer.

Residents helped to design the streets and public spaces, and there are barbeque and sunbathing areas alongside more traditional playgrounds and parks. Involving people in this way has helped create a real sense of community. This has been kept up through initiatives like a local farmers market and co-operative food shop. The overall costs have been kept low, helping many low income families to become homeowners for the first time.

Upton, Northampton, UK

This site was originally ear-marked for traditional development, reliant on cars, but the plans were completely transformed to create a sustainable community. Several different architects and builders have been involved, so buildings range from traditional arts and crafts style houses to modern towers with pyramid roofs. Upton shows that it's possible to have high environmental standards without futuristic designs.

Scharnhauser Park, Ostfildern, Germany

This former US airbase in spectacular surroundings has been transformed beyond recognition. The development has been carefully planned to make the most of the stunning views and preserve local character.

The housing ranges from one-bedrooms for professionals to larger family homes, as well as homes suitable for the elderly. All the homes have been built to low energy standards, and any extra heating or hot water comes from a district heating system run on wood chips. The whole community benefits from a highly efficient drainage system.

A community development programme is running a variety of clubs, events and interest groups. The local shopping centre attracts people from across the region, helped by the light rail service. The streets and public spaces have received as much attention as the housing, and the promenades in particular are very popular with local residents.

Tubingen, Germany

Like an eco-town, Tubingen in Germany is designed to be a model of sustainable development. By 2015, they expect to have homes for 6500 people and 200 new jobs. Homes, businesses and services are built close together, which cuts down on travel time and allows for plenty of green space for recreation. There is a strong sense of community, with high levels of interaction between generations and social groups. Residents are actively involved in their neighbourhood, and much of the public spaces and green areas have been designed in a co-operative process through civic involvement.

Great Bow Yard, Langport, UK

Great Bow Yard, a development in Langport in Somerset, is made up of 12 town houses and apartments as well as office spaces, a restaurant/cafe and a communal garden. All the homes are environmentally friendly, with features such as lightweight timber frame construction. Water is heated with solar panels, which helps to keep healing bills down, recycled newspaper has been used for insulation - and even the toilets are flushed with rainwater. It's been described as "a healthy place with healthy materials."