Issues and Options

12.1 It is vital that sustainable travel provides a ‘joined up’ approach to encouraging people to use more sustainable modes of transport. Although this may not be possible for all journeys, providing people with a realistic alternative to travel by car is vital to the success of embedding a model shift. 12.2 By strategically placing larger employment areas in accessible locations, it would be possible for any operator of this employment site to prepare a travel plan which would consider where employees live and how they can access their place of employment. It is anticipated that this would be developed as part of the planning application and could be linked to any permission through a legal agreement.

13.1 Our client welcomes updates to the technical work relating to environmental policies. Each site being promoted through the Local Plan will be subject to a planning application where more detailed assessments will be possible when the exact proposals are known. It is therefore vital that technical and environmental constraints are considered on a site by site basis, with any environmental evidence produced in support of the Local Plan forming the background to the research that is undertaken as part of the planning application process. 13.2 The existing policies that seek to protect and enhance the natural environment are considered adequate to guide development away from the most sensitive areas and are therefore considered appropriate.

14.1 We support the work being undertaken in relation to the proximity of food outlets and schools and other locations for example where young people congregate. As stated in the consultation paper, any policy must be fully justified to ensure it is relevant and beneficial to Bedford Borough.