Bedford Borough Council is likely to start work on a new Local Plan, to ensure it is best placed to get the maximum benefit from the expected arrival of Universal Destinations & Experiences.
A Local Plan is a detailed document, created by a council, that sets out policies and proposals for future development, such as housebuilding, employment, shops, and infrastructure.
And while Bedford Borough Council has been working on its 2040 plan to set the agenda for the next 15 years, the likely impact of Universal– which is expected to bring 28,000 new direct and indirect jobs, generate billions in economic benefits, and attract millions of visitors to the area annually – mean the landscape has now changed.
A decision on whether to withdraw from the current Local Plan (2040) process as advised by the Planning Inspectorate and to start work on a new plan will go to the Executive and be brought before Full Council next month.
A letter to the Council from Darren McCreery of the Planning Inspectorate said; “Given the implications of Universal, the likely outcome of a review and the work following it would be the production of a fundamentally different plan to the one submitted...
“Such changes, including how to realise the opportunities of Universal, are instead best discussed with local communities outside the scrutiny of a plan examination. This would more closely align with the National Planning Policy framework’s aim of a genuinely plan led system, with plan making creating a framework for meeting needs, addressing priorities, and a platform for local people to shape their surroundings.”
He added; “In terms of taking things forward, in the combination of specific circumstances presented in this case, I see no reasonable way for the examination of the Plan to continue.
“Instead, I would strongly recommend that the plan is withdrawn and that the Council resolve to work in partnership with their local community to bring forward a new plan, away from the scrutiny of an examination.”
Other Local Plan policies remain in place and elements of them continue to be valid as will neighbourhood plans where those exist for smaller, more local areas.
Tom Wootton, Mayor of Bedford Borough said; “This is another example of how the expected arrival of Universal Destinations & Experiences is a fantastic opportunity for Bedford Borough – and for us to ensure we’re ready to reap the benefits and plan for our future.
“Bedford is the perfect place for this investment – well-connected, full of talent, and ready to grow. Now let’s make sure we do it right.”