Object

Representation ID: 6262

Received: 10/09/2021

Respondent: Mr A Sarro

Agent: Phillips Planning Services

Our client controls the Land East of Bedford Road/Oldways Road, Ravensden, Bedford, MK44 2RD, which is being promoted through the Call For Sites Process, Site ID 601. This site is available for up to 70 dwellings.

Ravensden is a sustainable rural settlement located on the outskirts of the urban area. A number of services can be accessed by foot from the site, including a convenience store, several employment opportunities, and several bus stops which include a frequent bus service into Bedford and Kimbolton. There is also a church, public house, and primary school accessible at a longer walking / short cycling distance. The site is therefore in a reasonably sustainable rural location. Development of this site will contribute towards the long term vitality of the settlement and viability of these services.

The site is within the cross roads area of the village and will be surrounded by development on four sides meaning it can assimilate into the village without having a significant impact on the wider landscape.

Furthermore, 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 67 registrants who have registered a preference for Self-Build housing in Ravensden and the surrounding areas. This 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.