Work has begun to prepare a new long term framework to guide the future planning of the Borough, known as the Bedford Borough Local Plan 2050.
The Bedford Borough Local Plan will be a key strategic blueprint outlining how the Borough and its individual places will grow and develop up to 2050. It will shape everyday life across the Borough, guiding the delivery of homes, jobs, services and infrastructure while protecting local character and addressing both current and future needs.
A timetable outlining the key stages of the new plan along with the notice confirming the start of the process can be viewed online at www.bedford.gov.uk/localplan2050. It is also accessible in libraries and at the Borough Hub in Horne Lane.
Our first public consultation on the new plan, setting out its scope and early direction, will run from September to October 2026. A call for sites will also take place from the summer to October 2026 to identify potential development opportunities from landowners, developers and other interested parties.
Councillor Andrea Spice, Portfolio Holder for Economic Growth, Planning and Prosperity (including Town Centres) said; “The Bedford Borough Local Plan is one of the Borough’s most important strategies and relies on input from residents, businesses and organisations. The new timetable is among the first in the county to be published under the government’s planning reforms.
“As the Borough enters a critical period, the new plan aims to guide growth in a way that improves environmental quality and transport links, provides sufficient affordable homes in suitable places, supports local job opportunities, revitalises our town centres and maximises the benefits of Universal theme park and other major projects.”
If you would like to stay informed about the next stages of the plan process and are not already on our consultation database, please send your contact details to planning.policy@bedford.gov.uk or write to:
Planning Policy & Strategy Team
Bedford Borough Council
Borough Hall
Bedford
MK42 9AP