The Council proposes a plan period to 2040. As noted, this will differ from the plan period for the Oxford-Cambridge Arc Spatial Framework (Arc Framework) which is to 2050. Given the Local Plan will need to demonstrate its consistency with the Arc Framework when it becomes national policy in 2023 in order to be found ‘sound’, the Council should reconsider extending the Plan period to 2050 in order that the Arc Framework’s policies and proposals are fully reflected and captured in the Development Plan. It could seriously undermine the delivery of national policy if they are not reflected in the Development Plan for Bedford Borough. Whilst it is acknowledged this is challenging given both Plans are being prepared simultaneously, effective and on-going joint working is integral to a positively prepared and justified strategy.

In any event, national policy now requires Councils should set a vision that looks at least 30 years ahead when allocating new settlements or significant extensions to existing villages and towns (paragraph 22 of the NPPF). Given the nature of the options presented in this consultation, it would be prudent for the Council to decide now to revise its Plan period to 2050.