Comment

Bedford Borough Local Plan 2040 Plan for Submission

Representation ID: 10249

Received: 29/07/2022

Respondent: Central Bedfordshire Council

Representation Summary:

1. General Comments
1.1 CBC recognises that following the adoption of the current Bedford Local Plan in 2020, the review was commenced in line with adopted Policy 1, and that whilst the plan period is rolling forward by 10 years, this is a partial review of the plan, undertaken to ensure the Policies remain up to date and to take account of changing government guidance.
1.2 We therefore note that the review and this consultation focuses on the following key policy areas:
• Vision and objectives
• Climate Change
• Spatial strategy to 2040 and site allocations
• Town centre and retail policies
• New and updated Development Management policies

1.3 Whilst CBC recognises the context within which the plan review commenced, we are mindful that there are numerous references to the Oxford to Cambridge Arc and the previously planned Arc Spatial Framework. Government have more recently indicated that the Arc will not be being taken forward as envisaged with a government-led strategy, but rather that any future growth within the geographical area of the Arc should be ‘locally-led’. We do recognise the many benefits of emulating the Arc Principles that many local authorities, including Bedford, have previously signed-up to, particularly in relation to climate change, economic growth and the natural environment, however, it is considered that the plan would benefit from reflecting the lesser role and influence that the Arc will now have on local planning.
1.4 With regard to transport matters, our comments are set out in detail below. However, both Central Bedfordshire and Bedford, alongside other stakeholders, including National Highways, are involved in ongoing meetings in relation to both M1 Junction 13 and the A1/A428 Junction and wider A1 Corridor. These meetings were initiated as all parties involved recognise and acknowledge that there are issues and opportunities at these two locations that can only be resolved through collaborative working and the joint consideration of existing growth proposals and future opportunities. Discussions are at the early stages and whilst solutions are yet to be identified, CBC hopes that these wider discussions will continue, and that progress can be made towards a resolution that meets the needs and aspirations of all.
1.5 It is also noteworthy, that whilst CBC are not looking to Bedford Council to meet any of Central Bedfordshire’s housing or employment growth at this time, that this is in the absence of any future discussions with other authorities about any potential unmet housing and economic needs.