Object

Representation ID: 10391

Received: 29/07/2022

Respondent: FCC Environment UK Ltd

Agent: Axis PED Ltd

Legally compliant? Not specified

Sound? No

Duty to co-operate? Not specified

Policy DS2 (S) – Spatial Strategy – The spatial strategy set out within policy DS2(S) is supported. This proposes a sustainable pattern of growth directing development in the urban area and at locations with great accessibility to rail stations and where walking neighbourhoods can be created
The policy confirms development will be focussed at specified strategic locations adjacent to the urban area and at growth locations within the A421 / East West Rail corridor. All new development is required to contribute towards achieving the stated objectives and policies of the plan. This is in accordance with paragraph 22 of the NPPF which confirms that strategic policies should look ahead over a minimum 15 year period from adoption to anticipate and respond to long-term requirements and opportunities, such as those arising from major improvements in infrastructure.
The policy provides further detail of where development will be supported. This includes growth locations on the East West Rail / A421 transport corridor and with the potential for rail based growth. There are three sub-headings within this section, these are:
- South of Bedford policy area
- Little Barford area
- Other employment sites
The text for ‘Other Employment Sites’ states:
Locations well-related to the strategic road and rail network that will deliver employment growth, making Bedford an attractive place to do business.
Does the reference to employment sites relate to only those sites allocated for employment development, or does it also provide an allowance for other sustainable sites to come forward providing they are in a suitable location and currently in employment use? Greater clarity should be provided within this key policy so that it is effective in accordance with the NPPF.