Object

Representation ID: 6347

Received: 10/09/2021

Respondent: Miss Joanne Halliwell

I understand that despite there being significant capacity already in either unsold or not yet built properties that this is a plan to 2040. And whilst I do not like it or agree with it, I know there will be a proposal put forward.

My preference is Option 2c and the least impactful to Wilstead's current community. I support the creation of whole new settlements that can have their identity rather than be absorbed into our existing village. Wilstead is already in danger of being swallowed up by the Wixams development and will merge with not just Elstow and Houghton conquest also Kempston Hardwick and conceivably Shortstown eventually.

This is followed by Option 2d but with Wilstead's development taking place at sites 686 and 819 as they will not continue to join up to neighbouring villages and will continue to allow Wilstead to existing with a separate identity without changing the existing roads, properties, and appearance by affecting the existing village.

Options 2a&b are to me unnecessary in this area as there are far more suitable solutions namely 2c outlined above.

The infill between neighbouring settlements is already reducing the green space for all communities and continues ever increasing like ripples on a lake. For mental wellness, physical wellness, and aesthetics these spaces and boundaries are essential. Separate identities are paramount to successfully delivering additional housing. If identities and separation were not important then the whole area could just be called Bedford and no planner developer or person with a social conscience would promote that as the dream or their marketing proposal. They know community and belonging are important and this will be at the centre of the councils many other projects. This should be part of the decision making when creating new areas and not having to react to the complications that could have been avoided.

You have to have a social conscience. Creating new settlements does not impact an existing settlement directly as there obviously is not one. Therefore, this is of course less impactful for community DNA and objections from the existing community and is the best course of action as outlined in Option 2c.