Object

Representation ID: 8746

Received: 29/09/2021

Respondent: Bedfordshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust

Agent: Barton Willmore

2.1 The Draft Plan’s ‘Vision’ is set out at paragraph 2.1, which states that its purpose is to demonstrate the focus and direction of the Local Plan.

2.2 The second paragraph of the Vision states that by the end of the plan period “well- planned growth supported by appropriate infrastructure… will enable the creation of strong, safe and resilient communities in environments that facilitate healthy and independent living for all.” However, there is no specific reference to healthcare infrastructure and we are of the view that this is an important element that should be included within the Vision.

2.3 The fourth paragraph of the Vision briefly makes reference to the transformation of “brownfield sites on the western side of the town and south of the river”, the latter of which we assume relates to the Policy 14 Area including some of the South Wing site and wider car parking land etc, in the Britannia Road area. Again, we are of the view that explicit reference to the Bedford Hospital sites should be made within the Vision, as these are key locations for development and improvement during the local plan period.