The government has insisted applications will still go before local authorities and stressed eco-towns would have to comply with existing planning rules.

BBC: Decision on 'eco-towns' delayed

When the new government came in, one of the first things it did was abolish regional planning strategies and controversial proposals for eco-towns.

BBC: Fears for green field sites with latest planning advice

Last month campaigners against the scheme lost a High Court case when a judge rejected their complaint that there had been a failure to consult the public properly over the "eco-towns" policy.

BBC: Assessment over eco-town project

Eco-towns, intended to tackle the twin problems of housing shortages and climate change, have to be carbon zero as a whole, be an "exemplar" in one area of environmental development and have at least 30% affordable housing.

BBC: Assessment over eco-town project