Sustainable building professionals are among the 12 individuals who have been recruited by the government to play a part in its Eco-towns Challenge.

Kris Murrin, who is an expert in sustainable transport, joins Sue Riddlestone - director at BioRegional Development Group - and founder of sustainable firm Beyond Green Joanna Yarrow as part of a team looking to establish more green homes in the UK.

Experts from the environment and transport industries will also be involved in the project, which will discuss the use of sustainable building materials - among other issues - and how they can shape the nation's towns.

The group has been put in place to ensure developers are meeting high standards when it comes to building homes, which is likely to involve considerations such as renewable energy for homes and matters to do with insulation.

Work may involve liaising with green energy providers, but ultimately it will focus on maximising the potential of eco-town development.

On April 3rd, housing minister Caroline Flint announced 15 potential locations will go forward for the eco-town scheme. These included Pennbury in Leicestershire and Ford in West Sussex.