13 October 2010 Last updated at 13:04

Bicester 'eco-town' plans go on display

As well as the 420 homes, there are plans for a "village store" and space for other retail units

Residents are being invited to see plans for 420 homes that have been proposed as part of the North West Bicester "eco-development".

The homes are the initial part of a 20-year project involving the building of 5,000 homes on the "zero-carbon" development site.

There will be four public consultations at different locations around Bicester between Wednesday and Sunday.

The planning application for the scheme is due to be submitted later this year.

Ian Inshaw, director of the project's developers P3Eco Bicester, said: "The success of this project and its future look and feel can be influenced by those living in Bicester and the surrounding areas."

Drop-in Sessions

• Wednesday 13 October: Bure Park Community Hall, Bure Park Primary School, 92 Lucerne Avenue 1830 - 2030 BST
• Thursday 14 October: Bure Farm Pub, Barberry Place, 1200 - 2000 BST
• Friday 15 October: Market Stall, Sheep Street from 1000 - 1600 BST
• Saturday 16 October: Wyvale Garden Centre, Oxford Road, Bicester 1000 - 1600 BST

As well as the 420 homes - 30% of which the developers have promised will be affordable - there are plans for a "village store" and space for other retail units.

A community centre is also planned along with a pub and land set aside for a school.

In addition to the drop-in sessions there will also be a smaller static exhibition in the entrance to Bicester Library until Monday 18 October.

Eco-towns are described as small new towns of between 5,000 and 20,000 homes designed to achieve zero-carbon development and more sustainable living using modern design techniques.

A zero-carbon home should use less energy than it generates, meaning the energy needed for heating, lighting, hot water and electrical appliances must be obtained from renewable sources.