These representations are made on behalf of St Modwen Logistics. St Modwen Logistics own and manage Thurleigh Airfield, an established business park and existing allocation, classified as Protect and Enhance and subject to Policy 70 of the Local Plan 2030 (adopted January 2020).

St Modwen Logistics support Thurleigh Airfield’s continued allocation for employment use, classified as Protect and Enhance. Under the Local Plan 2030 sites classified as Protect and Enhance play the primary role in supporting economic development and growth by offering attractive and available opportunities for development to retain and support existing businesses and to secure new inward investment.

The Bedford Employment Land Study (June 2021) (ELS) identifies Thurleigh Airfield as having potential for intensification and recommends that the site remains in the Protect and Enhance category, which St Modwen Logistics support.

St Modwen Logistics consider that sites identified as Protect and Enhance, and in particular brownfield sites such as Thurleigh Airfield, should be identified and prioritised as a location for employment growth in the Local Plan 2040. Taking account of the ELS (please see separate comments), Thurleigh Airfield has significant potential for growth and St Modwen Logistics respectfully request that this is taken into account in the Local Plan 2040.