2.1

Support

Representation ID: 4784

Received: 01/09/2021

Respondent: Great Denham Parish Council

The Council welcomes the inclusion of the importance of local green spaces, and also the Country Park at Great Denham in its reference to Parks west of Bedford.

The Council welcomes the recognition of the importance of sustainable development, avoidance of high areas of flood risk and the focus on securing net-gain in both diversity and environmental quality.

Object

Representation ID: 4884

Received: 02/09/2021

Respondent: Ms Tara Skey

The Council’s statement would appear contradictory should the proposed new settlement of Dennybrook (land west of Wyboston site 977) be taken forward. The parish of Staploe will certainly not become 'greener' and 'more attractive' by such urbanised development. Avoiding areas of high flood risk is not the same as preventing them! Rural communities will not 'embrace appropriate development' such as Dennybrook that does not refelct its 'unique local character' 'Locally important green spaces and valued local landscapes will be protected and enjoyed by all.' Accordingly, the ‘draft vision’ can only be taken at surface value if it is not upheld.

Object

Representation ID: 4981

Received: 02/09/2021

Respondent: Bates Bros (Farms) Limited

Agent: Phillips Planning Services

The Vision sets out general planning aims, and we have no particular comments to make on the Borough becoming more sustainable, the delivery of good design, or improved transport options etc. However, it is surprising that the Vision does not make any stronger statements on growth, where it will be located, or make a commitment to delivering the required number of new dwellings, and employment land as identified in the remainder of the Draft Plan.
Given the emerging focus on the delivery of the Oxford - Cambridge Arc as identified in the document, and the current consultation on priorities for the Spatial Framework, it seems a missed opportunity for the plan not to take a lead in setting out a how it could play an important role in delivering the vision. The statement at paragraph 1.11 appears to read as “we will do what have to”, rather than seeking to embrace the ambitions that Government has for development within the Arc.

In particular it would seem sensible for the plan to make some provision for the possibility of an uplift in housing and employment growth that may emerge through the preparation of the Arc’s Spatial Framework. The current consultation on “Creating a Vision for the Oxford-Cambridge Arc”, states that the Government is:
“concerned about the affordability and availability of housing in the Arc, and what this will mean for the Arc’s communities, economy and environment. Development of new homes is already happening in the Arc, but in the main centres this has not kept up with need. We also know people are being priced out of the area, increasing the need to make more polluting journeys for work and leisure, and making home ownership less likely for many.”
Our emphasis
At paragraph 5.8 of the consultation, it adds:
“In parallel to the development of the Spatial Framework, the government is also exploring options to speed up new housing and infrastructure development in the Arc to help meet its ambitions, where evidence supports it. This includes examining (and where appropriate, developing) the case for new and/or expanded settlements in the Arc, including options informed by possible East West Rail stations between Bedford and Cambridge and growth options at Cambridge itself.
Our emphasis
While it is acknowledged that the Local Plan review and the Spatial Framework will be prepared in parallel, it is clear that the emerging vision is targeting a more advanced and robust form of growth. Therefore, for the Plan to be “positively prepared”, we would contend that the Local Plan Review should allow for some uplift whether that be 10 or even 20%. If the Spatial Framework is adopted at the same time as the plan, there is likely to be the added pressure to consider another urgent review to keep pace with the changing policy context, therefore allowing for some uplift would pre-empt this and help towards reducing the burden going forward.
This important point is supported by updated guidance in the revised National Planning Policy Framework (2021); and, while it is accepted that this Consultation was developed in advance of the publication of the revised Framework, we must highlight that under paragraph 22 it states that where Local Plans are to include new settlements or significant extensions to towns and villages, then it should be set within a vision which looks at least 30 years ahead. As the transitional arrangements at paragraph 221 of Annex 1 confirm this applies to plans that have not reached Regulation 19 stage; then, no matter which strategy is chosen, the Bedford Local Plan 2040, must expand its “vision” to set out how it will accommodate growth beyond 2040 and deliver on the ambitions of the Arc.

Object

Representation ID: 5029

Received: 02/09/2021

Respondent: Mrs Julia Willison

If Bedford borough council stick to their ‘vision and objectives’ statement then Dennybrook would be deemed a totally unsuitable site for development. It will increase pollution due to a huge increase of traffic. Reduction in food production as the proposed development site is on high quality agricultural land. Increase the risk of flooding in an area with a history of flooding. Bedford town centre would not benefit from the Dennybrook development as it is too far away and the nearest town is St.Neots. The Dennybrook development would ruin the character and beauty of the parish and destroy valued local landscapes.

Object

Representation ID: 5081

Received: 02/09/2021

Respondent: Mrs Clare Buddle

‘…continue to be respected, protected and valued.’ should be changed to ‘…continue to be respected, protected, enhanced, promoted and valued.’

Object

Representation ID: 5082

Received: 02/09/2021

Respondent: Mrs Clare Buddle

"...as a community space..." should be changed to "...as a community hub (the centre of the town)...”

Object

Representation ID: 5083

Received: 02/09/2021

Respondent: Mrs Clare Buddle

“Good design will help to improve…” should be changed to “High quality design, promoted through Design Codes…”

“…protected and valued.” should be changed to “…protected, enhanced, promoted and valued”.

“The borough's countryside, its…” should be changed to “The borough's countryside and urban greenscapes, its…”

The sentence “Rural communities will embrace appropriate development,” should be omitted. Development in rural areas should be restricted to that which is essential on sustainability grounds.

“This development…” should be changed to “All development…” to reflect the government’s and The LPA’s increased quality design commitments.

Object

Representation ID: 5085

Received: 02/09/2021

Respondent: Mr Alex Chrusciak

The vision should reference the significant use of Kimbolton Road and other roads to the north of the town and build upon this popularity by including reference to promote this through road improvements to support cyclists.

Object

Representation ID: 5086

Received: 02/09/2021

Respondent: Mrs Clare Buddle

The vision has an overemphasis on the rural areas. Much greater focus is required on the urban areas to stop the proliferation of development in the countryside and promote more sustainable (effective and efficient) development.

Object

Representation ID: 5140

Received: 03/09/2021

Respondent: Mr Trevor Monk

Building on countryside is not environmentally friendly and not sustainable. How can destroying the countryside, the environment be a good thing?

Support

Representation ID: 5157

Received: 03/09/2021

Respondent: Mr Chris Giles

This is an important statement for the Council. Staploe Parish Council recognise the growth challenges faced by the Council, specifically when attempting to align with the Oxford-Cambridge Arc. That said, the Council’s statement would appear contrary should the proposed new settlement of Dennybrook (land west of Wyboston site 977) or the other large sites in the parish be taken forward. Other large sites are 997 (Cobholden), 455 (Manor Farm), Flints Field (930) or 931 (Top Homes). The parish of Staploe is the epitome of intrinsic character and beauty, and it is considered that there are valued local landscapes that would be eroded by such urbanised development. Accordingly, the ‘draft vision’ can only be taken at face value if it is not upheld.

Object

Representation ID: 5183

Received: 03/09/2021

Respondent: Mr Ian Francis

THis statement is impossible to apply when considering new settlements in ANY green field rural areas. It is far more applicable when considering a brown field site, clean modern eco housing can be far superior in appearance and environmental credentials than a derelict industrial estate.

Support

Representation ID: 5214

Received: 03/09/2021

Respondent: Mrs Julie Sellers

" ……..Bedford, along with the River Great Ouse valley and its riverside villages, will continue to form the backbone of the borough's rich green and blue infrastructure. …….. "
The above extract recognises the integral quality of the environment and settlements of the Great Ouse valley in Bedford Borough. I support your vision retain this asset to our borough which would otherwise be blighted by inappropriate development(s).

Object

Representation ID: 5243

Received: 03/09/2021

Respondent: Mr Peter Norris

3rd Paragraph:
There is no guarantee that the E-W Rail project will be complete; the solution proposed is flawed, under costed, excessively environmentally destructive and hotly contested. The assertion 'will be complete' is therefore totally speculative.

6th Paragraph:
There are further hollow statements contained here when the full extent of environmental destruction that will result from the Borough Council's preferred E-W Rail Route and subsequent Alignment is properly analysed.

Support

Representation ID: 5290

Received: 03/09/2021

Respondent: Mr Alan Dickinson

Overall, I support the vision and the Themes, ( but see comment under 1 about the East-West railway)
It is not demonstrated however that the housing proposals do protect the countryside and natural resources
In particular, the importance of the Great Ouse and its environment needs more recognition
In theme 4, the key is Appropriate amount and type of housing

Support

Representation ID: 5339

Received: 03/09/2021

Respondent: L&Q Estates Limited

Agent: Pegasus Group

This representation is submitted by Pegasus Group on behalf of L&Q Estates. We support the proposed visions as set out in Section 2 of the Consultation document. Please find enclosed our vision document for Wixams East (Site ID 3233) which provides more detail on how this site fits within the overall vision and objectives of the plan.

Wixams East provides the opportunity to deliver the vision for the local plan by building up on the success of the well planned and high-quality development at Wixams which sets the standard for the rest of the development.

Object

Representation ID: 5353

Received: 03/09/2021

Respondent: Ms Jackie Brand

Amended wording for para 1: The borough will have become a greener, more sustainable, more attractive, more easily accessible and prosperous place to live, visit and work in. Tackling climate change and adapting to and mitigating its effects will be at the heart of new development throughout the borough, including facilitating sustainable food production. Bedford Town centre will reinforce its own individual identity of its heritage and Victorian Embankment. There will be a specific and unique offering from Bedford that distinguishes it from other nearby towns, in terms of its built environment, landscape and leisure offering.

Object

Representation ID: 5427

Received: 03/09/2021

Respondent: Mr Daniel Kownacki

Whilst 'a greener, more sustainable, more attractive and prosperous place to live' is a great ambition, I feel this local plan strategy will not achieve this goal effectively. Too much focus on out-of-town development, poor (and at best vague) vision for consolidating and creating green spaces and too few new rail stations (current East West Rail proposals should be reconsidered in this context) leave much to be desired in this plan.

Object

Representation ID: 5494

Received: 06/09/2021

Respondent: Mr Stuart Ledwich

This is an important statement for the Council. Staploe Parish Council recognise the growth challenges faced by the Council, specifically when attempting to align with the Oxford-Cambridge Arc. That said, the Council’s statement would appear contrary should the proposed new settlement of Dennybrook (land west of Wyboston site 977) or the other large sites in the parish be taken forward. Other large sites are 997 (Cobholden), 455 (Manor Farm), Flints Field (930) or 931 (Top Homes). The parish of Staploe is the epitome of intrinsic character and beauty, and it is considered that there are valued local landscapes that would be eroded by such urbanised development. Accordingly, the ‘draft vision’ can only be taken at face value if it is not upheld.

Support

Representation ID: 5516

Received: 06/09/2021

Respondent: Mrs Clare Szczepanski

The Vision sets out general planning aims, and we have no particular comments to make on the Borough becoming more sustainable, the delivery of good design, or improved transport options etc. However, it is surprising that the Vision does not make any stronger statements on growth, where it will be located, or make a commitment to delivering the required number of new dwellings, and employment land as identified in the remainder of the Draft Plan.

Given the emerging focus on the delivery of the Oxford - Cambridge Arc as identified in the document, and the current consultation on priorities for the Spatial Framework, it seems a missed opportunity for the plan not to take a lead in setting out a how it could play an important role in delivering the vision. The statement at paragraph 1.11 appears to read as “we will do what have to”, rather than seeking to embrace the ambitions that Government has for development within the Arc.

In particular it would seem sensible for the plan to make some provision for the possibility of an uplift in housing and employment growth that may emerge through the preparation of the Arc’s Spatial Framework. The current consultation on “Creating a Vision for the Oxford-Cambridge Arc”, states that the Government is:

“concerned about the affordability and availability of housing in the Arc, and what this will mean for the Arc’s communities, economy and environment. Development of new homes is already happening in the Arc, but in the main centres this has not kept up with need. We also know people are being priced out of the area, increasing the need to make more polluting journeys for work and leisure, and making home ownership less likely for many.”

Object

Representation ID: 5525

Received: 06/09/2021

Respondent: Mr Bernard Cornwell

The Vision sets out general planning aims, and we have no particular comments to make on the Borough becoming more sustainable, the delivery of good design, or improved transport options etc. However, it is surprising that the Vision does not make any stronger statements on growth, where it will be located, or make a commitment to delivering the required number of new dwellings, and employment land as identified in the remainder of the Draft Plan.

Given the emerging focus on the delivery of the Oxford - Cambridge Arc as identified in the document, and the current consultation on priorities for the Spatial Framework, it seems a missed opportunity for the plan not to take a lead in setting out a how it could play an important role in delivering the vision. The statement at paragraph 1.11 appears to read as “we will do what have to”, rather than seeking to embrace the ambitions that Government has for development within the Arc.

In particular it would seem sensible for the plan to make some provision for the possibility of an uplift in housing and employment growth that may emerge through the preparation of the Arc’s Spatial Framework. The current consultation on “Creating a Vision for the Oxford-Cambridge Arc”, states that the Government is:

“concerned about the affordability and availability of housing in the Arc, and what this will mean for the Arc’s communities, economy and environment. Development of new homes is already happening in the Arc, but in the main centres this has not kept up with need. We also know people are being priced out of the area, increasing the need to make more polluting journeys for work and leisure, and making home ownership less likely for many.”

Object

Representation ID: 5533

Received: 06/09/2021

Respondent: EF Wootton and Son

The Vision sets out general planning aims, and we have no particular comments to make on the Borough becoming more sustainable, the delivery of good design, or improved transport options etc. However, it is surprising that the Vision does not make any stronger statements on growth, where it will be located, or make a commitment to delivering the required number of new dwellings, and employment land as identified in the remainder of the Draft Plan.

Given the emerging focus on the delivery of the Oxford - Cambridge Arc as identified in the document, and the current consultation on priorities for the Spatial Framework, it seems a missed opportunity for the plan not to take a lead in setting out a how it could play an important role in delivering the vision. The statement at paragraph 1.11 appears to read as “we will do what have to”, rather than seeking to embrace the ambitions that Government has for development within the Arc.

In particular it would seem sensible for the plan to make some provision for the possibility of an uplift in housing and employment growth that may emerge through the preparation of the Arc’s Spatial Framework. The current consultation on “Creating a Vision for the Oxford-Cambridge Arc”, states that the Government is:

“concerned about the affordability and availability of housing in the Arc, and what this will mean for the Arc’s communities, economy and environment. Development of new homes is already happening in the Arc, but in the main centres this has not kept up with need. We also know people are being priced out of the area, increasing the need to make more polluting journeys for work and leisure, and making home ownership less likely for many.”

Object

Representation ID: 5546

Received: 06/09/2021

Respondent: Mr R Pinfold

Agent: Phillips Planning Services

The Vision sets out general planning aims, and we have no particular comments to make on the Borough becoming more sustainable, the delivery of good design, or improved transport options etc. However, it is surprising that the Vision does not make any stronger statements on growth, where it will be located, or make a commitment to delivering the required number of new dwellings, and employment land as identified in the remainder of the Draft Plan.

Given the emerging focus on the delivery of the Oxford - Cambridge Arc as identified in the document, and the current consultation on priorities for the Spatial Framework, it seems a missed opportunity for the plan not to take a lead in setting out a how it could play an important role in delivering the vision. The statement at paragraph 1.11 appears to read as “we will do what have to”, rather than seeking to embrace the ambitions that Government has for development within the Arc.

In particular it would seem sensible for the plan to make some provision for the possibility of an uplift in housing and employment growth that may emerge through the preparation of the Arc’s Spatial Framework. The current consultation on “Creating a Vision for the Oxford-Cambridge Arc”, states that the Government is:

“concerned about the affordability and availability of housing in the Arc, and what this will mean for the Arc’s communities, economy and environment. Development of new homes is already happening in the Arc, but in the main centres this has not kept up with need. We also know people are being priced out of the area, increasing the need to make more polluting journeys for work and leisure, and making home ownership less likely for many.”

Support

Representation ID: 5591

Received: 06/09/2021

Respondent: Mrs Julie Kilby

This is an important statement for the Council. I recognise the growth challenges faced by the Council, specifically when attempting to align with the Oxford-Cambridge Arc. That said, the Council’s statement would appear contrary should the proposed new settlement of Dennybrook (land west of Wyboston site 977) or the other large sites in the parish be taken forward. Other large sites are 997 (Cobholden), 455 (Manor Farm), Flints Field (930) or 931 (Top Homes). The parish of Staploe is the epitome of intrinsic character and beauty, and it is considered that there are valued local landscapes that would be eroded by such urbanised development. Accordingly, the ‘draft vision’ can only be taken at face value if it is not upheld.

Object

Representation ID: 5642

Received: 07/09/2021

Respondent: Mr Phillip Yockney

The Council’s statement would appear contradictory should the proposed new settlement of Dennybrook (land west of Wyboston site 977) or the other large sites in the parish be taken forward. Other large sites are 997 (Cobholden), 455 (Manor Farm), Flints Field (930) or 931 (Top Homes). The parish of Staploe is the epitome of intrinsic character and beauty, and it is considered that there are valued local landscapes that would be eroded by such urbanised development. Accordingly, the ‘draft vision’ can only be taken at face value if it is not upheld.

Support

Representation ID: 5660

Received: 07/09/2021

Respondent: Hallam Land Management

Agent: David Lock Associates

Hallam Land Management considers that the draft vision remains constrained by the absence of a single preferred strategy option which is needed to inform a vision that is more spatially relevant and provides a meaningful context for the emerging themes, and objectives, which themselves deserve to be more spatial in focus in focusing future growth.

As stated in Hallam’s Response to the Growth and Spatial Strategy Options, a preferred strategy is required that includes a combination of the wider options presented as alternatives. A single themed option based on the variants of Option 2, is unlikely to realise each of the opportunities for sustainable development and investment. Similarly, a single theme places additional risks in relation to delivery of homes and infrastructure – the prospect of which has been given secondary rather than primary consideration, were a single theme to be advanced as a preferred option. Maximising and not just meeting basic delivery aspirations should be a leading factor in the identification of the preferred option.

Spatial elements of the vision are initially focused on Bedford Town Centre. As a development strategy emerges, we would expect the vision and themes and objectives to be more spatially relevant in setting out the priorities for growth at more well-defined locations across the Borough to provide an appropriate context for the development strategy, and policies for the distribution of housing growth, employment and more detailed policies.

The focus on sustainable neighbourhoods implies sustainable developments in Bedford and Kempston and in village communities but is not reflected in the preferred variants of Option 2. In particular Hallam considers that a focus on Bedford and Kempston should embrace related settlements adjacent to the town. Such a focus needs to be more holistic and not just about design, but also supporting development with adequate infrastructure development. As such, Hallam considers that the Vision should be that by the end of the plan period, major strides will have been made to greatly enhance the sustainability, infrastructure and quality of life of existing communities through the opportunities delivered for sustainable development in and at existing communities. The focus should, therefore, be on the creation of sustainable communities be it through a balanced focus of growth at existing settlements as well as any major planned expansion or new settlements – i.e. not just sustainable developments, that as a main focus risks undermining achieving the true sustainability potential of existing communities. Nor is it appropriate or sustainable that existing settlements should be left behind.

Object

Representation ID: 5693

Received: 07/09/2021

Respondent: Miss amber scally

This is an important statement for the Council. Staploe Parish Council recognise the growth challenges faced by the Council, specifically when attempting to align with the Oxford-Cambridge Arc. That said, the Council’s statement would appear contrary should the proposed new settlement of Dennybrook (land west of Wyboston site 977) or the other large sites in the parish be taken forward. Other large sites are 997 (Cobholden), 455 (Manor Farm), Flints Field (930) or 931 (Top Homes). The parish of Staploe is the epitome of intrinsic character and beauty, and it is considered that there are valued local landscapes that would be eroded by such urbanised development. Accordingly, the ‘draft vision’ can only be taken at face value if it is not upheld.

Support

Representation ID: 5725

Received: 07/09/2021

Respondent: Odell Parish Council

Since the last plan it is pleasing to note that the current document appears to have been developed with greater strategic vision related to the wider infrastructure needs of the Borough and recognises that Bedford is now a substantial commuter location largely serving London employment needs.
We support the aspiration to be a greener, more accessible and prosperous Borough with the opportunity for all in the Borough able to take advantage of the betterments that such a plan will provide. Optimising the use of brown-field sites rather than development on farming land for new housing is strongly supported.
Odell Parish Council is encouraged to observe the greater strategic vision in the 2040 Plan than
that in the Local Plan 2030 and the Plan to 2035. Bedford Borough is at last starting to address
the fundamental challenges of a growing town, including its rural locations. It is however a
major strategic challenge for the Borough Council to ensure that the development of the
Oxford/ Cambridge Arc does not become predominant and disproportionate in the
determination of the expansion of the Borough.

Object

Representation ID: 5750

Received: 07/09/2021

Respondent: Miss Hannah Hambleton-Jewell

“The borough's countryside, its intrinsic character and beauty including areas of tranquil retreat will be recognised. Rural communities will embrace appropriate development, in many instances through the preparation of their own neighbourhood plans. This development will reflect each area's unique local character whilst providing and supporting much needed housing and employment, rural facilities and services, including high speed broadband and public transport. Locally important green spaces and valued local landscapes will be protected and enjoyed by all.”

This is an important statement for the Council. I recognise the growth challenges faced by the Council, specifically when attempting to align with the Oxford-Cambridge Arc. That said, the Council’s statement would appear contrary should the proposed new settlement of Dennybrook (land west of Wyboston site 977) or the other large sites in the parish be taken forward. Other large sites are 997 (Cobholden), 455 (Manor Farm), Flints Field (930) or 931 (Top Homes). The parish of Staploe is the epitome of intrinsic character and beauty, and it is considered that there are valued local landscapes that would be eroded by such urbanised development. Accordingly, the ‘draft vision’ can only be taken at face value if it is not upheld.

Object

Representation ID: 5790

Received: 07/09/2021

Respondent: Mrs Gillian Tagg

This is an important statement for the Council. I recognise the growth challenges faced by the Council, specifically when attempting to align with the Oxford-Cambridge Arc. That said, the Council’s statement would appear contrary should the proposed new settlement of Dennybrook (land west of Wyboston site 977) or the other large sites in the parish be taken forward. Other large sites are 997 (Cobholden), 455 (Manor Farm), Flints Field (930) or 931 (Top Homes). The parish of Staploe is the epitome of intrinsic character and beauty, and it is considered that there are valued local landscapes that would be eroded by such urbanised development. Accordingly, the ‘draft vision’ can only be taken at face value if it is not upheld.
100-word Summary
The Council’s statement would appear contradictory should the proposed new settlement of Dennybrook (land west of Wyboston site 977) or the other large sites in the parish be taken forward. Other large sites are 997 (Cobholden), 455 (Manor Farm), Flints Field (930) or 931 (Top Homes). The parish of Staploe is the epitome of intrinsic character and beauty, and it is considered that there are valued local landscapes that would be eroded by such urbanised development. Accordingly, the ‘draft vision’ can only be taken at face value if it is not upheld