4.14

Comment

Representation ID: 10258

Received: 29/07/2022

Respondent: Central Bedfordshire Council

8. Transport Strategy
8.1 CBC considers that mirroring the 5 point Plan of Action and Principles from the EEH Transport strategy is sensible and supports aligned action across the EEH area. The stepped trajectory approach is wise when there are many external factors influencing the delivery of critical infrastructure, many of which will either not be complete until at least 2030 or their certainty level is still unknown.
8.2 However, whilst a stepped approach is supported, it is noted that with the higher development rates in the second half of the plan period from 2030 onwards, there will be limited scope to bring forward sites to address any shortfall which may arise in the early years of the plan. CBC consider that contingency sites should be identified to maintain housing delivery in the event that the large strategic sites planned at the end of the plan period do not materialise.

Comment

Representation ID: 10455

Received: 27/07/2022

Respondent: Conservative Group

Agent: Bedford Borough Councillor

We support the objectives of the Transport Strategy although as stated do not agree with its dependence on EWR. However, there is no reference to the need for a comprehensive network of safe cycle routes. There has been some unstructured and piecemeal efforts made by the Council but nothing that meets the existing need or will encourage more people to use cycling as an option to car travel.
Similarly the reliance on current rural locations for over 10.000 of the proposed new dwellings also does nothing to encourage a reduced dependence on the car.