Issues and Options

Hallam considers that standards for housebuilding should be implemented through Building Regulations. Any local standards otherwise will need to be supported with a strong evidence base that provides a rationale for standards driven by local specific circumstances (e.g. site-specific circumstances that merit differing standards for water supply, drainage, geothermal or renewable energy etc.)

Hallam considers that greater use of sustainable transport modes can be achieved through greater investment in walking and cycling infrastructure. At Clapham for example, provision of an enhanced walking and cycle link with Bedford and improvements to public transport have the potential to make these modes of choice.

Hallam considers that the Local Plan will need to be cognisant of the wider changes to the planning system that are emerging, including the Standard Methodology for housing growth.