I write on behalf of our client, Mary Delger, in relation to the above consultation which forms part of the Bedford Borough Local Plan Review (Bedford Local Plan 2040). My client’s site, Land at the rear of The Old Forge, 33 Top End, Renhold (Site Reference 766) was submitted as part of the previous ‘Call for Sites’ Consultation in August 2020.

In respect of the options provided within the Draft Local Plan regarding where growth in the Borough should be located, we support Option 2d: Development in and around the urban area, plus A421 transport corridor with rail-based growth parishes, southern parishes, and east parishes, plus one new settlement. This option proposed 1500 dwellings adjoining the urban area and 750 dwellings to the east of the Transport Corridor. Whilst Renhold has not been listed as one of the parishes within this location, it is acknowledged that it is included within the figure provided at Option 2d.

Whilst the figures provided for each of the options are indicative at this stage, given Renhold’s location close proximity to the existing Urban Area (Policy AD41) as per the Allocations and Designations Local Plan 2013 and within the proposed Eastern Parishes area, it is felt the village should be included within an option proposing developing in and around the urban area and could support the Borough in the delivery of the required 25,500 dwellings over the plan period.