Object

Representation ID: 5814

Received: 07/09/2021

Respondent: Mr Glen Moore

Agent: Phillips Planning Services

There is clearly potential for further growth in Wootton and it is highly that some of the additional housing will be allocated to this part of the Borough, particularly as Wootton is within preferred growth strategy options 2a, 2b, and 2d. Our client would like to put forward his sites as suitable locations to meet this need - Land at 66 Hall End Road, Wootton (Site 699), and Tippins, Hall End Road (which has recently been submitted to the Call For Sites process and is awaiting a Site ID). Land At Hall End Road is available for up to 40 dwellings, and Tippins is available for between 20 and 70 dwellings. These sites are close to two existing sites identified in the emerging Neighbourhood Plan (currently at Regulation 16 stage). The Neighbourhood Plan confirms the location to be suitable for sustainable growth, and these two sites offer an opportunity to build on this premise.
Wootton, is a highly sustainable settlement and is recognised in the Bedford Borough Local Plan 2030 as a Key Service Centre. Within the village are a number of services accessible by foot including a primary school, a middle school, medical centre, two supermarkets, a post office, a church, and three public houses, as well as multiple employment opportunities. In addition to this there are several bus stops that offer services into Bedford. The sites are therefore in a very sustainable rural location, and new development can contribute towards the long-term vitality of the settlement and viability of these services.
It is well recognised that villages and rural settlements such as this make for attractive locations for self-build plots. Table 12 of the Housing Strategy 2021-2026 shows that there are currently 82 registrants who have registered a preference for Self-Build housing in Wootton and the surrounding areas. The site is being promoted for self-build through the Call For Sites process and provides an opportunity to provide self-build plots in a location where they are required.
Finally, the Neighbourhood Plan process has worked well in Wootton and our client would be happy to work with the Parish Council to deliver more land to meet any future need.