Bedford Borough Council has indicated its intention to withdraw its Local Plan from the Examination process following the Government’s recent announcement regarding Universal Studios.
While formal ratification by councillors is still required, it is expected that the Council will proceed with withdrawal and begin work on a new Local Plan that reflects the opportunity presented by Universal Studios and how to realise its full potential.
It is regrettable that circumstances outside of the Council’s control – and unrelated to the Little Barford site – have led to the likely withdrawal of the current plan. In the absence of an up-to-date Local Plan, Bedford Borough continues to face a significant shortfall in housing land supply, increasing the risk of speculative development across the borough.
Lands Improvement remains fully committed to the Little Barford project. We continue to work closely with Council officers and elected members to ensure the emerging plans for the site remain aligned with the shared vision set out in the draft Local Plan policies and are further strengthened by our ongoing and comprehensive programme of community engagement.
We intend to continue preparing a masterplan for Little Barford, culminating in a future planning application. This decision is based on the following key reasons:
- Support through the Examination process
The site was scrutinised by the Government-appointed Planning Inspector, who raised no concerns regarding its deliverability.
- A well-planned alternative to speculative development
In the absence of an adopted Local Plan, Little Barford provides a considered and consulted-upon option for meeting housing needs, offering the Council and local communities a route to retain control over where and how new development comes forward.
- Commitment to infrastructure delivery
Our proposals will include the full range of infrastructure set out in the draft Local Plan – including new healthcare, education, retail, cultural and community facilities – ensuring that growth is supported by essential services.
- Established strategic justification
The spatial advantages that supported Little Barford’s allocation remain unchanged, including proximity to the Black Cat to Caxton Gibbet improvements and the Government’s backing for East West Rail.
We remain focused on working in partnership with the Council and local communities to deliver a sustainable and well-integrated new community at Little Barford.