Object
Local Plan 2040 Draft Plan - Strategy options and draft policies consultation
Representation ID: 6380
Received: 13/09/2021
Respondent: Mr Sandy Gery
Agent: Phillips Planning Services
It is noted that Neighbourhood Planning has been largely successful in Bedford Borough, and that discussions with the parishes are ongoing as to whether this remains a tool that communities wish to use to allocate new development in the next plan period. Our client raises no objection to this approach, and would welcome the opportunity to engage with the Parish Council on the benefits the site can offer. However, if this method of allocation is chosen going forward, it is important that a clear policy structure is created to define the level of growth to be allocated by each community. We would also argue that should those plans not come forward in a timely manner, such as within 3 years of the adoption of the Local Plan 2040, the policy should allow for sites to come forward adjoining the Settlement Policy Areas, therefore the allocation policy will be deemed out of date for that Parish/Settlement for the purposes of Development Control.
We are mindful that Colmworth Parish did commence work on a Neighbourhood Plan, but failed to progress, with the last communication in early 2018 regarding a change in the Chair of the committee, and a statement that they would take advice as to whether it was worth proceeding with the preparation of a plan. It is assumed a decision was taken not to proceed, although we note that in the minutes of the Annual meeting that the Council retain finds for such a purpose.
We would simply highlight that given the projected growth required within the Borough, should the Council decide to allocate growth to this location, or encourage small scale provision to meet local needs, we would encourage the Parish to revisit the opportunity presented by the Neighbourhood Plan process. There are many smaller parishes in Bedford that have benefited from this process. If the Parish do take this view our client would welcome the opportunity to discuss their vision and how his sites might assist in their realisation.