Object

Representation ID: 6384

Received: 13/09/2021

Respondent: Mr Sandy Gery

Agent: Phillips Planning Services

Our client would like to highlight that he has four sites in Colmworth which are suitable for development and can contribute towards the sustainability of the settlement. These are Land East Church Road (Site 759) which is available for up to 300 dwellings, Land West of Church Road (Site 758) which is available for up to 150 dwellings, and Land To The North Of The Cornfields Public House (Site 727) and Rear Of The Cornfields Public House (Site 3448) which are both available for up to 30 dwellings.

Our client has identified these sites as available to address any emerging option for growth in the village. Colmworth is a small settlement, but is has a strong sense of community and there has been modest infill development accommodated over the past 10 years. However, despite an identified housing need, including a clear need for some affordable housing, the Parish did not progress a Neighbourhood Plan.

The settlement benefits from several services and facilities which support the sustainability of this community. A public house and restaurant are easily accessible, as well as a bus stop with a two hourly bus service into Bedford. A pre-school and nursery, and a church are to be found in the village. Development will contribute towards the long-term vitality of the settlement and sustain the viability of these services.

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 45 registrants who have registered a preference for Self-Build housing in Colmworth and the surrounding areas. These sites are being promoted for general housing but also for self-build through the Call for Sites process and provide an opportunity to provide self-build plots in a location where they are required.