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Britain to Fight Fat in 'Fit Towns'

Government would broaden eco-friendly schemes to address health concerns

By Colleen Barry,  Newser Staff

Posted Nov 1, 2007 4:56 PM CDT

(Newser) – In light of dire predictions about the cost of the obesity crisis, England wants 10 previously planned eco-friendly towns to also combat obesity by promoting healthy lifestyles, the Guardian reported today. Among the proposals: more bike lanes; safe walking routes to school and the downtown area; larger and more modern parks, playgrounds and leisure centers.

So-called fit towns would also feature readily accessible general practitioners' offices, regular weigh-ins for kids after primary school and school programs encouraging healthy eating habits and exercise from a young age. The plan is modeled on 10 French towns that have been successful in cutting childhood obesity with comprehensive approaches.

In this Tuesday, Jan. 16, 2007, file photograph, trays of carrot and celery sticks with low-fat ranch dip, orange slices and beef hot dogs with whole wheat buns sit in the cafeteria at Columbus Elementary School in Lodi, N.J. New Jersey's health department is starting a new Office of...
In this Tuesday, Jan. 16, 2007, file photograph, trays of carrot and celery sticks with low-fat ranch dip, orange slices and beef hot dogs with whole wheat buns sit in the cafeteria at Columbus Elementary...   (Associated Press)
An overweight person is seen walking in London, Wednesday, Oct. 17, 2007. Britain's health secretary called Wednesday for a fundamental shift in the way the nation tackles obesity after a study said dramatic action was required to stop the majority of the population from becoming obese by 2050. (AP Photo/Kirsty...
An overweight person is seen walking in London, Wednesday, Oct. 17, 2007. Britain's health secretary called Wednesday for a fundamental shift in the way the nation tackles obesity after a study said dramatic...   (Associated Press)
An overweight person eats in London, Wednesday, Oct. 17, 2007. Britain's health secretary called for a fundamental shift in the way the nation tackles obesity after a study said dramatic action was required to stop the majority of the population from becoming obese by 2050. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)
An overweight person eats in London, Wednesday, Oct. 17, 2007. Britain's health secretary called for a fundamental shift in the way the nation tackles obesity after a study said dramatic action was required...   (Associated Press)
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