Issues and Options

The provision and enhancement of pedestrian and cycle routes to local facilities and accessibility to public transport are considered to be ways which can encourage the greater use of sustainable modes of transport through the Local Plan. In particular, enhancing pedestrian and cycle connectivity, and delivering improvements in safety on routes between Great Barford and the eastern edge of Bedford will support the sustainability of Great Barford as Key Service Centre. In our client's proposals under the Neighbouhood Plan preparations, we have identified the opportunity of the site and the ability within the wider land ownership, to deliver cycle and pedestrian connections that offer both sustainable travel as an option, but also contribute towards providing for leisure and recreation to support health and wellbeing. There may also be opportunities to enhance existing us services such as the X5 Express service.

It is not considered that existing planning policies fail to cover important national or local issues on the protection and enhancement of the natural environment.

There are not considered to be any matters addressed in new Government guidance which is not adequately covered by existing policies or referenced within the Issues and Options Consultation document. Further matters may come to light upon publication of the first detailed draft of the Local Plan Review.