Bedford Development Framework

Sustainability Appraisal of the Allocations and Designations Local Plan

Revised Sustainability Appraisal Report

Appendices

Allocations and Designations Local Plan

Bedford Borough Council

July 2013

Contents Page Appendix 1: Consultation responses 1 Appendix 2: Outline of plans and strategies influencing the Allocations and Designations Local Plan

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Appendix 3: Baseline information 92 Appendix 4: Development of the sustainability appraisal objectives 126 Appendix 5: Sustainability Appraisal Framework 135 Appendix 6: Appraisal of options 139 Appendix 7: List of policies in the draft Allocations and Designations Plan

204

Appendix 8: Sustainability appraisal of sites proposed for allocation in the Draft Plan

217

Appendix 9: Sustainability appraisal of proposed designation policies in the Draft Plan

263

Appendix 10: List of policies in the Allocations and Designations Plan for Submission

303

Appendix 11: Sustainability appraisal of sites allocated in the Plan for Submission

318

Appendix 12: Sustainability appraisal of designation policies in the Plan for Submission

363

Appendix 13: List of policies in the adopted Allocations and Designations Local Plan

401

Appendix 14: Sustainability appraisal of sites allocated in the adopted Plan

415

Appendix 15: Sustainability appraisal of designation policies in the adopted Plan

458

Appendix 16: Assessment of cumulative effects of adopted Plan policies on sustainability objectives

495

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Appendix 1 Consultation responses Results of consultation on the Scoping Report The Scoping Report was published for consultation between 10th December 2007 and 16th January 2008. The Council received 16 representations as a result of the consultation and the main points of the representations are summarised below together with the Council’s response. Organisation Comment Response Cycling Campaign for North Bedfordshire

Section 3 – all the relevant plans, programmes and strategies have been identified. Section 4 – All sustainability issues and problems have been identified. Para 4.52 it is important to encourage cycling and walking. Section 5 – Agree with the objectives, except 15 which should say ‘minimise car growth’ or similar by planning to reduce the need to travel and promoting the shift to more sustainable modes of travel, bus, train, walking, cycling. Para 6.2 – alternative approaches, the need to reduce car journeys should also include the provision of a good, safe cycle and pedestrian network to local facilities (schools, shops, leisure centres) as well as the town centre. Section 7 – Agree with the proposed structure of the SA Report. Appendix 1 – Agree with the targets and implications. Appendix 2 – The values quoted for methods of travel to work are different to the values I have. A robust indicator is needed for the years between 2001 and the 2011 Census.

Noted. Noted. Agree the objective should focus upon reduction in car usage and promotion of other modes of travel. The text in paragraph 6.2 is an example of the ‘alternative approach’ to looking at options. Options will be stated in the Issues and Options Paper. Noted. Noted. Data taken from 2001 census UV39. Figures are a % of the total population (106,897) and do not take account of the 36,384 recorded as not working. Data to be amended. A robust indicator for period between census dates is not known.

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Organisation Comment Response Appendix 3 – Objective 17 should be amended to ‘minimise the need to travel and to change the mode of travel from cars to public transport, cycling and walking. This will minimise the conflict between objectives 17 and 7, 8 and 15. Appendix 4 – Objective 8 needs a robust indicator for the % of people travelling to work by walking/cycling. Objective 15 should say ‘minimise car growth’ and the indicator for mode of travel to work must be robust.

Agree. Proposed objective 15 to be amended. Proposed indicator is the best and most robust data available. Proposed objective 15 to be amended.

East Midlands Regional Assembly

It is advantageous to include SA objectives on energy efficiency/renewable energy as well as those aiming to reduce greenhouse gases, impacts of climate change, flood risk etc. The Draft Regional Plan has clearer aims in regards to the East Midlands Core Regional Objectives.

Proposed objectives 1, 2 and 5 all deal with these issues. The Draft Regional Plan was identified as a relevant plan in paragraph 3.5.

Highways Agency

Objective 1 should have an indicator relating to congestion as trying to ascertain the transport share of greenhouse gas emissions from mode of travel and distances to work do not cover this. Data sources should include ‘transport data held by highways authorities and public transport operators and government statistics’. Para 5.3 – objective 15 should be changed to read ‘minimise growth in the use of the private car’.

The greenhouse gas mainly responsible for the enhanced greenhouse effects is CO2 (60%). Add indicator relating to congestion. Agree objective 15 should be amended.

East of England Regional Assembly

No comments to make at this time. Noted.

Stevington Parish Council

Chapter 4 – review of the Settlement Policy Areas – reference should be made to the Parish Council Chapter 4 – transport infrastructure is the responsibility of the County Council so should it appear on this report? Chapter 4 – There is a contradiction between protecting high quality agricultural land and also identifying land for mineral resources extraction e.g. Oakley Turn,

The Parish Councils will be consulted on Settlement Policy Areas, their review and designation, throughout the production of the plan. The capacity and provision of transport infrastructure is a consideration for new development. There will be conflicting objectives when development is proposed. The purpose of the

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Organisation Comment Response Bromham. Sustainability Appraisal is to

identify these, find the most sustainable solution and propose mitigation measures if needed.

Oakley Parish Council

Infrastructure availability – more attention should be paid to the matter of public utilities in terms of adequacy of supply and, in respect of water issues and pollution, the adequacy of sewage disposal and treatment facilities.

Infrastructure availability will be a key consideration when any development is proposed. Infrastructure providers and utility companies are consultees in the plan making process.

Cambridge-shire County Council

Chapter 3 – Plans and Programmes - Suggest also identify: • Green Infrastructure Strategy

Cambridgeshire Horizons 2003 • Great Ouse Catchment Flood

Management Plan Environment Agency 2007

• Regional Woodland Strategy EERA/Forestry Commission 2003

• The provision of Affordable Housing in the East of England EERA 2003.

Green Infrastructure Strategy – Existing Green Corridor 1 – the Ouse Valley has the objectives of connectivity, accessibility and landscape/biodiversity enhancement. Add as a relevant plan. Great Ouse Catchment Flood Management Plan – This has been added to the list of plans and programmes. Regional Woodland Strategy – This has been added to the list of plans and programmes. The provision of Affordable Housing in the East of England – This was a basis for the Regional Housing Strategy and as such has been overtaken by that document.

Natural England

All relevant plans have been identified. Baseline: The presence of wider biodiversity features should be considered at this stage (County Wildlife sites and BAP habitats and species). Baseline: The provision of green infrastructure does not appear to be mentioned in this section, Although referred to in Appendix 2.

Noted. The BAP habitats and species in the Borough were identified in the Scoping Report baseline data. County Wildlife Sites are known and should be added to the baseline data. Include mention of green infrastructure in Section 4 (Baseline - Sustainability Issues).

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Organisation Comment Response SA objectives: provision of green infrastructure should be an objective. Appendix 2 – The % figure for SSSI should include the area of SSSI in unfavourable recovering condition in line with the requirement for meeting the PSA target. The figures should also include the date they were obtained as they are regularly updated.

Green infrastructure should be included as a detailed decision making criteria under Objective 3 Update Appendix 2 to show the area in unfavourable recovering condition and also the date collected.

National Grid Property Holdings Ltd

Where different weighting is attached to social, economic or environmental issues, this should be made explicit in the report. The plan should recognise the inherently higher costs of redeveloping previously developed land for housing e.g. former gas sites. The economics of installation cost, cost saving, payback period and technical feasibility should be considered in relation to renewable energy.

Where policy options are evaluated, the weighting given to each will be in line with the government guidance in ‘Sustainability Appraisal of RSS and LDF’ (November 2005). Predicted effects are measured in terms of duration of effect, certainty, scale, permanence etc. The Sustainability Appraisal will look at the relative sustainability of options, economics is only one factor. The local policy in the DPD will deal with renewable energy in line with national, regional and core strategy policy.

East of England Development Agency

In our experience scoping reports only provide limited reference to socio-economic impacts of the proposed report. EEDA considers that they usually need to be expanded to identify the wider socio-economic issues, benefits and costs. Appropriate links should be made to the Regional Economic Strategy (RES) 2004. The following issues are likely to be significant and should be considered:

The SA Scoping Report made many references to social and economic plans and baseline statistics. Benefits and costs of the plan options are not included in the Scoping Report as it does not appraise plan options. The RES is identified as a relevant regional plan on page 8 and in Appendix 1 page 53. The overarching ambitions of the RES are stated in the

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Organisation Comment Response • Provision for business (particularly

based in science and technology, research and innovation) including the supply of high quality business premises in sustainable locations

• Improving the region’s skills base and human capital (and especially to address skills gaps and shortages)

• Tackling deprivation and social exclusion, equality and diversity (giving communities opportunities to participate fully in the regional economy)

• Promoting sustainable development, urban renaissance and rural vitality, including the supply of high quality and affordable housing/residential environments, balanced with provision for employment

• Managing growth and development sensitively and effectively

• Complementing and enhancing the position of London as a world city

• Protecting and enhancing the region’s landscapes and environmental assets

The sub-regional policies contained in the RES for Bedford/Kempston area (see page 95) may be relevant. By addressing these key elements of the RES the SA will provide the context needed to appraise whether the strategy will help maintain the prosperity of the East of England enhancing its regional competitiveness and giving support to business growth.

Scoping Report and wee considered when the SA, Framework was developed. The issues identified are useful for the authors of the DPD. The sub-regional policies are relevant to the DPD and will be considered by the authors of the DPD when formulating policy. The SA will appraise the options of the DPD against the SA Framework, which was formulated in consideration of the RES and other relevant plans and programmes.

Bedfordshire Rural Communities Charity

Paras 4.28 and 4.40 text missing 5 week consultation in holiday period and the document was not downloadable for a period.

Amend relevant text. The consultation period was for the statutory period (taking account of public holidays) and was in line with the adopted LDS timetable. The document was e-mailed to those who could not access it due to technical problems.

Bedford Gospel Hall Trust

The report is weak on social plans and strategies, the following should be identified: • Strong and Prosperous Communities,

Strong and Prosperous Communities – this document relates to the structure, role and

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Organisation Comment Response White Paper Oct 2006

• Confident Communities in a Secure Britain, Home Office Strategic Plan 2004-08

• Diversity and equality in Planning – A good practice guide, ODPM 2005

• Faith and Community: a good practice guide for local authorities, LGA 2002

• Community Cohesion – an action guide, LGA 2004

• Healthy Sustainable Communities – a spatial planning checklist, Cave and Molyneux, 2004

• A Sure Start to Later Life, Social Exclusion Unit, CLG

• Building our Futures: Meeting the housing needs of an ageing population, ILCUK

• The Social Determinants of Health: The Solid Facts, 2nd Edition, WHO

performance of local government and does not provide social objectives that can be used for the Sustainability Appraisal. Confident Communities in a Secure Britain – The plan has been added to the relevant plans section. Good Practice Guides – These are not policy documents/strategies or programmes and as such are not included. However, they are used in the DPD process where relevant. Healthy Sustainable Communities: a spatial planning checklist – This document is a guide for health professionals/NHS to strengthen their involvement and enable them to engage in the planning process. A Sure Start to Later Life (Jan 2006) – The final report by the social exclusion unit into how the government will tackle exclusion in later life. There are no stated objectives that could be taken to inform the Sustainability Appraisal. Building our Futures (Feb 2006) – A report into the implications of the ageing population on decent housing for all over the next 25 years, including for older people. The document is a how to guide for planning for housing for older people and although relevant to the planning process, does not have any stated objectives that could be taken to inform the Sustainability Appraisal. The Social Determinants of

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Organisation Comment Response The report is silent on the needs of the ageing population. The DPD should ensure an adequate provision of social and community meeting places and the type and quantum of specialised housing (sheltered homes and lifetime homes). Further study should be made of the age profile to verify the needs of the ageing population. East of England Faiths Council have analysed 2001 census data and this shows a relatively high % of non-Christian faith members, this has given rise to the need for new temples and similar churches. Crime and the fear of crime and wider community safety are not reflected in the SA objectives. SA objective 5 and 8 could usefully be combined. Suggest the SA objectives are grouped under the headings economic, social, community and environmental.

Health (2003) – A report that focuses on how public policy can shape the social environment in ways conducive to better health. There are no stated objectives that could be taken to inform the Sustainability Appraisal. Paragraph 4.8 of the report identified there are expected to be large increases in both the post-retirement population and those over 75. SA objectives 6 and 10 in the proposed SA Framework (Appendix 4) relate to the needs of the elderly and related detailed indicators are proposed. The type and quantum of specialised housing will be considered in the Plan. The type and quantum of specialised housing will be considered in the Plan. The DPD process will allow any faith groups with needs for new temples/churches to make the Council aware of this fact. Crime and the fear of crime are important social objectives and should be reflected in the SA Framework. The objectives relate to different matters, one relates to the natural environment, the other to encouraging healthy lifestyles. As all objectives are inter-related, and one objective can touch on a combination of social, economic, environmental or community issues there is no specific need to do this.

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Organisation Comment Response Suggest further SA objectives: 1. (New) Sustain the vitality and viability of Bedford and surrounding villages, and their communities 2. (to replace objective 8) To ensure that new development is aesthetically pleasing and safe (in terms of both traffic and crime), and easy and pleasant to access 3. (amend objective 9 to read) Provide social infrastructure for all ages and accessible and inclusive services and facilities including open space 4. (New) To encourage a strong social and civic fabric, including volunteering, informal networks, and a culture of consultation and user empowerment amongst decision makers 5. (New) To promote a strong local identity and sense of place 6. (Amend objective 5 to read) Promote sustainable and healthy lifestyles, use resources efficiently, maximise recycling and re-use and provide facilities to enable this Appendix 4: SA Framework Objective 6 • The effect on wards other than those

stated should be considered • Rural accessibility ranking should be a

proxy for social exclusion • Needs of the elderly include access to

services Objective 8

SA objectives should relate to the identified sustainability issues and problems, taken from the baseline information collected, and updated as appropriate. They should also be measurable using indicators and targets. 1. Vitality and viability issues are reflected throughout the objectives in the SA Framework 2. Aesthetically pleasing and easy and pleasant to access would depend upon personal judgement and thus is virtually impossible to quantify. Traffic is covered in the SA Framework (obj 15) and crime is to be added (see above). 3. Open space is not specifically mentioned in the SA framework, should be added as a further detailed decision making criteria. There is no stated reason why ‘inclusive’ should be added to the objective. 4. Objective 11 covers community involvement, consultation and user empowerment in decision making. 5. Add reference to local identity and sense of place in the SA Framework 6. Healthy lifestyles are covered in objective 8. Objective 6 • The SA Framework is

targeting areas of known deprivation

• Accessibility to services are covered in Objective 9.

• Access to services is already an indicator against objective 9.

Objective 8

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Organisation Comment Response • Headline indicator – suggest discussion

with stakeholders • Suggest physical, mental and spiritual

health as an indicator • Suggest access to parks and footpaths

and % of children who walk to school as indicators

Objective 9 • Headline indicator – suggest discussion

with stakeholders • Suggest read EIP evidence to SE Plan

which suggests indicators Objective 11 • Headline indicator too narrow • Ethnic minorities are not the only hard

to reach groups • Ethnic minority groups are only likely to

respond to issues affecting the immediate locality

• Suggest indicator of levels of correspondence with ward members on a range of issues, not just planning

Agree with the structure of the SA Report.

• The consultations on the SA of the DPD are a chance for stakeholders to be involved.

• This indicator is not quantifiable and baseline data is not available.

• Add access to parks as indicator, length of public footpaths and % of children who walk to school as indicators.

Objective 9 • The consultations on the

SA of the DPD are a chance for stakeholders to be involved.

• Noted. Objective 11 • A suitable alternative

indicator has not been suggested.

• Agree, the Statement of Community Involvement (SCI) identifies hard to reach groups

• This is true of many if not all groups/individuals

• Level of correspondence from the community is the indicator already suggested. Correspondence from ward members would not indicate which community/social/ethnic groups are getting involved.

Noted.

Environment Agency

National Strategies The impacts on critical environmental factors such as water supply, waste-water treatment systems, waste disposal facilities, greenhouse gas emissions, biodiversity and flood risk must be identified and addressed. Build upon PPS1, PPS10, PPS25 to establish policies for: • Ensuring provision for adequate

environmental infrastructure

The impact of the proposals on water will be assessed through consultation with the Environment Agency and water companies. The PPS’s are identified in the Scoping Report. The Council will rely upon the Environment Agency and

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Organisation Comment Response • Offsetting demand management or

prevention measures such as SUDs or flood storage in RSS or LDFs

A Water Cycle Strategy can inform decisions regarding scale and timing of required infrastructure and provide a robust mechanism for determining the location and phasing of development and avoid repeated ad hoc infrastructure extensions. Regional Strategies: Water The MKSM SRS (paras 53-55) require consideration of water issues (waste, drainage management, flood risk, water/river quality and supply). Proposed Changes to RSS14 (policies ENV9, WAT2 and WAT3) uphold the need for sufficient evidence base concerning the required water services infrastructure for development in Growth Areas. A strategic and co-ordinated approach to water management is required. A water cycle strategy should identify required infrastructure and minimum timescales. Local Strategies Bedfordshire and Luton Green Infrastructure Guide (Feb 2001) should be listed. The Marston Vale Surface Water Plan (June 2002) and the Upper Ouse and Bedford Ouse Catchment Abstraction Management Strategy (March 2005) should be listed. Qn2: issues and problems Para 4.3 – the DPD should include consideration of water services infrastructure and green infrastructure Para 4.20 – Water efficiency should be built

water companies for advice on environmental infrastructure needs and water management and flood storage. The Council is of the view that it is for the Environment Agency and infrastructure providers to fund Water Cycle Strategies. Renaissance Bedford (the local delivery vehicle for the Bedford Growth Area) is currently exploring the potential to carry out a WCS. Other water issues should be added to the decision making criteria related to objective 2. The Council relies upon the Environment Agency and water companies for the evidence base. See above. The Beds and Luton Green Infrastructure Plan (2007) has been added. The plans have been added as relevant plans. The DPD will include the consideration of water services infrastructure and green infrastructure. Both of these issues have been added to the SA Framework. The paragraph is in the baseline information on

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Organisation Comment Response into new developments, to achieve the efficiency target of 25% (Code for Sustainable Homes). Explore the issue with the water company. It is assumed that all new homes will be constructed with water meters fitted and water saving measures such as low flush toilets, low flow showerheads and water butts. We support grey water recycling as it has the potential to reduce water consumption in the average household by up to 35%. Para 4.21 – Should be timely and appropriate investment in waste infrastructure. Reduce, re-use and recycle should be implemented and facilities (composting and waste handling) developed as part of essential infrastructure in new neighbourhoods. Para 4.22 – Public transport should be integrated and walking and cycling encouraged through design. Para 4.24 – The LPA should help deliver Water Framework Directive (WFD) objectives by: • Identifying the water management

issues that are relevant to spatial planning – planning policies should influence the design and location of new development to ensure it does not create adverse pressures on the water environment that could compromise our ability to meet WFD objectives

• Think about the implications of proposed development beyond the LPA boundary

• Ensuring that spatial plans complement RBMPs

Para 4.25 – The use of Integrated Urban Drainage should be considered (sewerage systems, wetland/green space for flood alleviation, SuDS).

sustainability issues section and as such, possible solutions are not proposed in this section. This is a Development Control issue but may also be appropriate for inclusion in a site-specific policy in this DPD. This is a Development Control issue but may also be appropriate for inclusion in a site-specific policy in this DPD. This is a Development Control issue but may also be appropriate for inclusion in a site-specific policy in this DPD. The SA Framework recognises this at objective 15. The Council is of the view that it is for the Environment Agency and infrastructure providers to fund Water Cycle Strategies. Renaissance Bedford (the local delivery vehicle for the Bedford Growth Area) is currently exploring the potential to carry out a WCS. The Council rely upon the Environment Agency and water companies for the evidence base to identify water management issues. The Council has identified the relevant water strategies that affect the region and local area. This is a Development Control issue but may also be appropriate for inclusion in a site-specific policy in this DPD.

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Organisation Comment Response Para 4.26 (& 4.33) - Green infrastructure should be promoted, development should minimise impact on ecological features and enhance biodiversity assets. Para 4.29 – Community composting schemes and the necessary waste handling facilities should be developed as part of new neighbourhoods. Developers should produce and implement a site waste management plan. Para 4.31 – Sustainable water management policies and planning conditions and obligations can make a major contribution to WFD objectives. Qn 3: Studies A WCS would provide important baseline information for the Council. Qn 4: SA objectives and indicators Para 5.3 – suggested monitoring tools for objectives 2, 5, 10 and 12: • Timely and appropriate investment in

water services infrastructure/green infrastructure

• Energy efficiency measures and local/small scale generation of low carbon heat and power

• Reduce greenhouse gas emission in accordance with the government’s 60% target by 2050

• Achieve a water efficiency target of 25% for planned development

The Core Strategy and Rural Issues Plan provides a general policy on green infrastructure. This is a Development Control issue but may also be appropriate for inclusion in a site-specific policy in this DPD. Noted. The Council is of the view that it is for the Environment Agency and infrastructure providers to fund Water Cycle Strategies. Renaissance Bedford (the local delivery vehicle for the Bedford Growth Area) is currently exploring the potential to carry out a WCS. • Add to objective 2

decision criteria and also against the natural features objective.

• Energy efficiency measures are covered in objective 1.

• CO2 emissions by LA area statistics are national indicator 186 and produced by DEFRA annually and can be added as an indicator.

• Water efficiency should be added as a decision making criteria against objective 2.

Bedfordshire County Council

The Report appears comprehensive and sets out clearly the parameters for any subsequent sustainability appraisal.

Noted.

Bedfordshire and River Ivel Internal Drainage

Section 3.3 water - add Floods Directive 2007/60/EC. Section 3.6 local – Section must include the

Include in section 3.3 Add to section 3.6.

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Organisation Comment Response Board Marston Vale Surface Waters Plan.

Section 4.3 - Flood Risk Management and SUDS should be included in this section. Section 4.3 – SUDS should be appropriate to the scale of the development and strategic SUDS should be provided where possible. Developers should design for exceedence in flooding. Appendix 1 – Include the Marston Vale Surface Waters Plan. Appendix 3 – This does not include a source of issues/wording for flood risk. This should be a stand alone item as flooding is not just caused by climate change.

Flood risk and the methods of alleviating the risk (such as SUDS) will be considered (see para 4.4). Appendix 4 of the Scoping Report includes reference to the risk of flooding as part of the decision making criteria. SUDS could be a method of doing this. Add to Appendix 1. The table is based upon the objectives in the Sustainable Futures document. Amend the SA objective 2 to focus on flooding (including that caused by climate change).

English Heritage

Question 1 Additional documents suggested: • Regeneration and the Historic

Environment (EH) • Retail Development in historic Areas

(EH) • Suburbs and the Historic Environment

(EH) • Regional Environment Strategy 2003 • Sub-Regional Green Infrastructure

Guide (2005) • Bedford Borough Landscape Character

Assessment (2007) • Bedfordshire Historic Landscape

Characterisation (BCC) • Bedfordshire and Luton Extensive

Urban Survey (2006) • Conservation Area Character

Appraisals and Management Plans (where they exist)

The three EH documents are guidance rather that plans and strategies and thus do not have identifiable objectives. They will be useful however if suburban/retail/regeneration proposals are considered. The Regional Environment Strategy and sub-regional green infrastructure guide are mentioned on pages 8 and 45/46. The Bedford Borough Landscape Character Assessment (2007) is a technical and factual assessment rather than a strategy and thus should not be added to the list of relevant plans/programmes. Bedfordshire Historic Landscape Characterisation – this is a technical document relating to archaeology rather than a strategy and thus should not be added to the list of relevant plans/programmes. Bedfordshire and Luton

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Organisation Comment Response Page 26 should refer to PPS1 para 5 ‘protecting and enhancing the natural and historic environment’. Question 2 The SA should refer to the wider historic environment (paras 4.27 & 4.34) not just designated features, i.e. a wider definition to include locally valued and important sites/areas/buildings and archaeological, landscape and townscape. Baseline data should identify the Registered Parks and Gardens. Page 80 built heritage features – indicator should include conservation areas, historic parks and gardens, listed buildings and SAM at risk and compare to regional/national average. Comment box should be expanded. Question 3 No additional heritage environment studies required. Would encourage character appraisals and management plans for conservation areas, particularly those which might be affected by the Allocations DPD. Question 4 Objectives 3 & 4 should be separated into built and natural features objectives. Appendix 4 – objective 3 headline indicator too narrow. Decision making criteria should be expanded to include all historic features. Suggest indicator to assess number of permissions granted that would adversely

Extensive Urban Survey (2006) – This document is a technical survey of Bedford and Harrold rather than a strategy and thus should not be added to the list of relevant plans/programmes. Conservation Area Character Appraisals and Management Plans – There are 2 appraisals and management plans for Bedford town centre and Bletsoe. These are relevant local plans. Amend PPS1 page 26 accordingly. Expand para 4.27 and 4.34. Add baseline information. Add baseline information. The programme of appraisals (and associated management plans) is currently under discussion. Agree – amend accordingly. Suggest headline indicator of permissions granted against EH or Conservation Officer advice. Expand the decision making criteria as

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Organisation Comment Response affect historic features. Appendix 4 – objective 4 headline indicator should assess whether new development meets CABE ‘Building for Life’ standards.

suggested. Agree the standard is referred to in PPS3, amend accordingly.

Results of consultation on the Sustainability Appraisal Report on the Issues and Options Consultation Document The Sustainability Appraisal Report on the Issues and Options Consultation Document was published for consultation between 30th April and 16th June 2008. The Council received only one representation as a result of the consultation and the main points of the representation are summarised below together with the Council’s response. Organisation Comment Response English Heritage

Welcome addition of new objective relating to heritage. Objective 3 – to enable objective to reflect wider historic concerns amend wording to “Protect and enhance the historic environment (and cultural heritage) of the Borough”. Objective 3 Decision Making Criteria - expand to include protection and enhancement of conservation areas and historic parks/gardens and their settings. Objective 4 Decision Making Criteria reference to registered parks/gardens – would be better dealt with under Objective 3. Objective 3 Detailed Indicators – Buildings at Risk register relaunched as Heritage at Risk register

Noted. Agree. Amend objective 3 accordingly. Agree. Change Decision Making Criteria accordingly. Agree. Move Decision Making Criteria (incorporate into previous amendment). Noted. Change reference.

Results of consultation on the Sustainability Appraisal Report of the Draft Allocations and Designations Plan The Sustainability Appraisal Report on the Draft Allocations and Designations Plan was published for consultation between 31st May and 13th July 2010. The Council received 4 representations as a result of the consultation and the main points of the representation are summarised below together with the Council’s response. Organisation Comment Response English Heritage

SA Framework – Heritage at Risk data now exists for conservation areas and registered parks &

Noted. Amend detailed indicators for

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gardens as well as listed buildings and scheduled monuments. The 2010 HAR register has just been published and contains 17 scheduled monuments at risk within the borough, as well as one listed building at risk (Cardington No. 1 Shed) and one conservation area at risk (Bedford). Sites assessment – We note that the assessment of individual sites against the historic environment objective (SA Objective 3) is based on whether the site is on previously developed land or not. This does not seem to fully reflect historic environment issues and results in some unusual results. Although not a preferred site, Stewartby Brickworks for example (Sites 183 and 184) is shown as having a positive impact on SA Objective 3 because the site is on previously developed land, and yet the site contains a number of Grade II listed chimneys and brick kilns which could be harmed by redevelopment. Sites assessment – none of the gypsy and traveller sites have been subject to sustainability appraisal.

objective 3 to refer to Heritage at Risk Register. Include data in baseline information. Noted. Review assessment of individual sites against the historic environment objective. All of the sites are appraised in the Sustainability Appraisal of Sites document. They are not listed in the Sustainability Appraisal Report because they were not firm proposals of the Plan at this stage.

ClearView Planning on behalf of Mr and Mrs Davies

Sustainability Assessment of Sites – Land adjacent to 156 High Street, Riseley (Site 29) Disagree with assessment against sustainability objectives. 1 - Welcome + assessment but should also refer to proposal being a carbon neutral home. 2 - Disagree with xx assessment because rainwater harvesting and green roof technology will minimise run-off. Site has never flooded and is very unlikely to. Should be assessed as +. 3 - Disagree with x assessment as new development can enhance the historic nature of an area. Low impact, carbon neutral house will be dug into the ground slightly and have a green roof, reducing impact on surrounding area. Should be assessed as +. 4 - Disagree with x assessment as majority of site will remain uncultivated and will enhance biodiversity. Development will protect the majority

Changes relate to Sustainability Assessment of Sites document 1 – Agree, add to comments “proposal is intended to be a carbon neutral home” 2 – Disagree, assessment relates to location of site in an area of flood risk. 3 – Disagree, the site is designated as a village open space because its openness is important to the character of the village. 4 – Disagree, the use of the site for a dwelling with garden

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of the natural features of the site. Should be assessed as neutral or +. 5 - Disagree with x assessment as proposal is for Code Level 6 development, be carbon neutral and promote sustainable lifestyles. Clay from the site will be used in construction thus using resources efficiently. Should be assessed as +. 6 - No issue with the assessment. 7 - Disagree with neutral assessment as proposal is for Code Level 6 home designed to full mobility standards. Should be assessed as +. 8, 9 - No comment. 10 - Agree with the positive score. Proposal will be to full mobility standards and carbon neutral thus meeting the needs of a changing population. 11 - Agree with the score and comments provided in the assessment. 12 - Agree with the + score but should also refer to proposal being a carbon neutral home. 13 - Disagree with neutral assessment as Code Level 6 home will improve understanding of sustainable technologies, especially among local builders. Should be assessed as +. 14 - Disagree with neutral assessment as proposal will help local builders gain knowledge. There are no other Code Level 6 homes in Bedfordshire. Should be assessed as +. 15 - Disagree with xxx assessment as national policy recognises that some housing development should be allowed in rural locations. One additional dwelling would not lead to an unacceptable increase in the number trips. Willing to invest in an electric car so that trips are low carbon. Should be assessed as neutral or +. 16 - Agree with positive score and comment. 17 - No comment.

and car parking will adversely affect undeveloped land. 5 – Agree, change assessment to + and comment to “proposal is intended to be a carbon neutral home”. 6 – Noted. 7 – Disagree, the assessment is based on the provision of affordable homes. 8, 9 – Noted. 10 – Noted. 11 – Noted, however to improve clarity the standard comments for this objective should be amended. 12 – Agree, change comment to “proposal is intended to be a carbon neutral home”. 13 – Disagree, the assessment is based on permanent employment. 14 – Disagree, this would only be a temporary effect. 15 – Disagree, development that does not meet a local need is better located in town or key service centres. 16 – Noted. 17 – Noted.

J & J Design on behalf of Bedford Gospel Hall Trust.

Support rejection of the ‘do nothing’ option and concur with paragraphs 3.2 and 3.3 of the SA Report. The Plan is essential for delivery of the Sustainable Community Strategy and the CSRIP. Support the revised list of sustainability objectives set out at paragraph 4.4. Site Allocations – Summary of Assessment – Policy AD19.

Noted. Noted.

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• Accept negative assessment due to the use of greenfield land. This is a consequence of the Council’s existing policies resisting the loss of housing and employment sites. • Accept negative assessment due to change in settlement pattern. However these are modest given the proximity of housing. Development will provide scope for significant improvements to existing hedgerow and trees, such that the settlement pattern will have little impact. The proposals will not contribute to the coalescence of Bromham with Biddenham and Bedford. • Do not accept negative assessment due to increased vehicle movements. Such movements already take place to/from the existing church in Barkers Lane Bedford and would merely divert to this site instead. Visitors from outlying areas will no longer need to enter urban area, resulting in reduced trips within Bedford. Non-car access modes are available.

Secondary, cumulative and synergistic impacts – Policy AD19 • Disagree with assessment of negative cumulative effects on village as would be largely unaware of the development. • Disagree with assessment of negative effects on the transport network as: majority of active use would be at off-peak times, strong likelihood of worshippers relocating to local housing areas, significant proportion of visitors to Barkers Lane will divert to this site so not new traffic generation. A detailed Transport Assessment will form part of any planning application.

Appendix 4 – Policy AD19 (Site 91) Disagree with assessment against sustainability objectives. 4 - There will be scope to enhance the natural environment and habitats. 5 - The proposed development will use resources efficiently and maximise recycling and reuse through choice of materials, use of grey-water and SUDS. 6 & 10 - We fail to see the relevance of local services and facilities not being within walking distance. This is not a housing development.

• Noted. • Disagree that proposal will not contribute to coalescence

• Noted, however proposal is assessed without reference to possible wider effects as there is no certainty over the future use of the Barkers Lane site.

• Disagree, the proposal will have a number of effects regardless of whether is visible. • Disagree, the proposal is assessed without reference to possible wider effects as there is no certainty over the future use of the Barkers Lane site.

4 – Disagree, the erection of a building and car parking will adversely affect undeveloped land. 5 – Disagree, the assessment is primarily based on the use of land. 6 & 10 – Agree, change assessment to ~ neutral impact and delete comment.

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8 - It is widely recognised that persons of faith who are committed to worship achieve a healthy lifestyle especially countering current trends towards increased mental health problems. The proposal should score positively. 9 - The proposal will strongly support this objective. 10 - The proposals will meet the needs of a changing population by supporting the elderly and families, together with the growth of population in the western sector of town. 17 - The Home Office strategic plan ‘Confident Communities in a Secure Britain’ (Home Office 2004) recognises the strong linkages between the voluntary sector, including faith communities, and tackling inequalities, eradicating racism and extremism and promoting positive values of citizenship, identity and belonging. Strong and cohesive communities providing equality of opportunity and respect for people of all races and religions are seen as a powerful lever towards reduction in crime and fear of crime. Churches and church goers engender a sense of purpose and moral rectitude which have a similar effect. The proposal should score positively.

8 – Disagree, the assessment is based on physical health. 9 – Agree, change assessment to + as will provide social infrastructure. 10 – The assessment is based on the proximity of local facilities. As for response to 6 & 10 above, change assessment to ~ neutral impact and delete comment. 17 – Disagree, the assessment is based on the development of land, not on the merits of the way it is proposed to be used.

Ms J Morris I would like to know whether the sustainability appraisal has any impact at all or if it is just done to tick the box? Many of the sustainability appraisal points made are disappointing and it is not clear if they will be acted on and lead to genuine mitigation measures or be simply ignored. In many cases eg 2.29 a positive effect on sustainability is given as ‘possible reduction in private vehicle movements’. This is a very nebulous effect, and as such I think should not be given much weight or seen as a genuine positive effect.

The Sustainability Appraisal is produced to help inform plan-making. It can help in choosing which sites could be allocated and, for sites that might have an adverse effect on sustainability, what mitigating measures could be taken to minimise that effect. A reduction in car use is a positive sustainability effect even if in this case it is likely to be small.

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Results of consultation on the Addendum to the Sustainability Appraisal Report of the Draft Allocations and Designations Plan The Addendum to the Sustainability Appraisal Report of the Draft Allocations and Designations Plan was published for consultation between 23rd December 2010 and 23rd January 2011. It accompanied a separate paper published specifically to consider climate change policy options, which had not been included in the Draft Plan. The Council received no representations as a result of the consultation on the Addendum. Results of consultation on the Sustainability Appraisal Report of the Allocations and Designations Plan for Submission The Sustainability Appraisal Report of the Allocations and Designations Plan for Submission was published for consultation between 30th September and 14th November 2011. The Council received only one representation as a result of the consultation and the main points of the representation are summarised below together with the Council’s response. Organisation Comment Response Natural England

Generally support the methodology, detail and conclusions of the Sustainability Appraisal. Concerns that the sustainability appraisal identifies that green infrastructure and open space can have a negative effect on crime and fear of crime and can be mitigated by increasing lighting levels. Increased lighting could have adverse affects on the biodiversity value.

Support noted. The mitigation of this potential effect by lighting is just one suggestion; others listed in the sustainability appraisal include careful design of landscaping and passive surveillance. The choice of the most appropriate method (if required) can be considered in the detailed design of individual schemes.

Results of consultation on the Sustainability Appraisal of Proposed Modifications to the Allocations and Designations Plan for Submission The Sustainability Appraisal of Proposed Modifications to the Allocations and Designations Plan for Submission was published for consultation between 2nd April and 15th May 2013. The Council received no representations as a result of the consultation.

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Appendix 2 Outline of plans and strategies influencing the Allocations and Designations Local Plan This appendix summarises the plans and strategies identified in the report as being relevant to the Allocations and Designations Local Plan. They are grouped under the subject area they cover. The table indicates the level at which the plan has been prepared (i.e. national, regional or local) and provides an explanation of the aims and requirements of the plan or programme and the implications for the Allocations and Designations Local Plan. Key objectives relevant to the Allocations and Designations Plan and sustainability appraisal

Key targets and indicators relevant to the Allocations and Designations Plan and sustainability appraisal

Implications for the Allocations and Designations Plan

Implications for sustainability appraisal

GENERAL National Planning Policy Framework (March 2012) – National Level Establishes a presumption in favour of sustainable development together with core planning principles to deliver sustainable development through – • Building a strong, competitive economy • Ensuring the vitality of town centres • Supporting a prosperous rural economy • Promoting sustainable transport • Supporting high quality communications infrastructure • Delivering a wide choice of high quality homes • Requiring good design • Promoting healthy communities • Protecting Green Belt land • Meeting the challenge of climate change, flooding and coastal

change • Conserving and enhancing the natural environment • Conserving and enhancing the historic environment • Facilitating the sustainable use of minerals.

There are no targets or indicators within this document.

Policies in local plans should follow the approach of the presumption in favour of sustainable development.

Be aware of the effect of the NPPF on the borough when undertaking the SA

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Key objectives relevant to the Allocations and Designations Plan and sustainability appraisal




PPS1 Delivering Sustainable Development (February 2005) – National Level • Communities should be sustainable with mixed housing; a

flourishing economy; adequate infrastructure; a high quality, safe and healthy environment; and cultural amenities.

• Encourage the use of renewable energy resources. • Enhance and protect biodiversity and address pollution, waste

and resource management. • Enable partnership working and community involvement.


• Aim to make communities more sustainable.

• Encourage energy efficiency (for example, requiring the generation of renewable energy as part of development), waste management and protect biodiversity.

• Consider community involvement and partnership working.

Take account of these objectives as part of the SA framework

PPS1 Planning and Climate Change – Supplement to PPS1 (December 2007) – National Level Key Planning Objectives: • make a full contribution to delivering the Government’s Climate

Change Programme and energy policies, and in doing so contribute to global sustainability;

• in providing for the homes, jobs, services and infrastructure needed by communities, and in renewing and shaping the places where they live and work, secure the highest viable resource and energy efficiency and reduction in emissions;

• deliver patterns of urban growth and sustainable rural developments that help secure the fullest possible use of sustainable transport for moving freight, public transport, cycling and walking; and, which overall, reduce the need to travel, especially by car;

There are no targets or indicators mentioned in the PPS Supplement, but it refers to the new performance indicators on climate change which are: • NI 185 CO2 reduction from

Local Authority operations PSA 27

• NI 186 Per capita reduction in CO2 emissions in the LA area PSA 27

• NI 187 Tackling fuel poverty – % of people receiving income

• Aim to make communities more sustainable

• Encourage energy efficiency

• Consider community involvement and partnership working.

Take account of these objectives as part of the SA process

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• secure new development and shape places that minimise vulnerability, and provide resilience, to climate change; and in ways that are consistent with social cohesion and inclusion;

• conserve and enhance biodiversity, recognising that the distribution of habitats and species will be affected by climate change;

• reflect the development needs and interests of communities and enable them to contribute effectively to tackling climate change; and

• respond to the concerns of business and encourage competitiveness and technological innovation in mitigating and adapting to climate change.

based benefits living in homes with a low energy efficiency rating Defra DSO

• NI 188 Planning to Adapt to climate change PSA 27

• NI 189 Flood and coastal erosion risk management Defra DSO

(Indicators published Feb 2008)

Securing the Future – UK Sustainable Development Strategy (March 2005) – National Level • Living within environmental limits • Ensuring a strong, healthy and just society • Achieving a sustainable economy • Promoting good governance • Using sound science responsibly

The strategy includes 68 indicators and several PSA national targets (greenhouse gas emissions, household waste, farmland birds, wildlife sites, crime reduction, increase employment, employment of disadvantaged groups, reduce young people not in training, level 2 and 3 qualifications, reduce adult smoking, public transport, road accidents, air quality, decent housing, fuel poverty)

• Take account of these objectives and targets for the SA Framework

• Consider using the indicators/targets of the strategy

Planning for a Sustainable Future: White Paper (May 2007) – National Level The paper lists the challenges as: • Climate Change • Supporting sustainable economic development

• Reduction in carbon emissions from new commercial buildings within

Ensure the challenges and vision of the white paper are considered where appropriate.

Take account of these objectives and targets for the SA Framework

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• Increasing the supply of housing • Protecting and enhancing the environment and natural

resources • Improving our local and national infrastructure • Maintaining security of energy supply The vision is for: • More and better jobs as a result of sustainable economic

development • Better infrastructure so people have access to reliable

transport, clean and secure energy, clean water supplies and better local amenities

• Continued protection and enhancement of the natural and historic environment

• Places shaped by their communities where people are proud to live

the next 10 years • 20% energy from renewable

sources by 2020

East of England Plan (May 2008) – Regional Level – note that the East of England Plan was revoked on 3 January 2013 Objectives are: To reduce the region’s impact on, and exposure to, the effects of climate change by: • locating development so as to reduce the need to travel • effecting a major shift in travel away from car use towards public

transport, walking and cycling • maximising the energy efficiency of development and promoting

the use of renewable and low carbon energy sources and • reducing the adverse impact of flooding on people, property and

wildlife habitats. To address housing shortages in the region by: • securing a step change in the delivery of additional housing

throughout the region, particularly in key centres for development and change and

• Regional target of 60% of development on previously developed land

• Job growth 27,000 in Bedford/Mid Beds 2001-21

• 19500 dwellings 2001-21 in the MKSM area (Bedford and Mid Beds)

• 1300 dwellings 2001-21 in the rest of Bedford Borough

• Regional target of 35% affordable housing

• Complete the national cycling network in the region by 2010

All regional objectives should be considered when developing the objectives for the plan.

Take account of these objectives and targets for the SA Framework.

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• giving priority to the provision of affordable housing to meet identified local needs.

To realise the economic potential of the region and its people by: • facilitating the development needed to support the region’s

business sectors and clusters, improving skills and widening opportunities in line with the Regional Economic Strategy

• providing for job growth broadly matching increases in housing provision and improving the alignment between the locations of workplaces and homes

• maintaining and strengthening the East of England’s inter-regional connections by improving access to economic opportunities in London and

• ensuring adequate and sustainable transport infrastructure. To improve the quality of life for the people of theregion by: • ensuring new development fulfils the principles of sustainable

communities, providing a well designed living environment adequately supported by social and green infrastructure

• promoting social cohesion by improving access to work, services and other facilities, especially for those who are disadvantaged

• maintaining cultural diversity while addressing the distinctive needs of each parts of the region

• promoting regeneration and renewal of disadvantaged areas and • increasing community involvement in the implementation of the

strategy at the local level. To improve and conserve the region’s environment by: • ensuring the protection and enhancement of the region’s

environmental assets, including the built and historic environment, landscape and water

• re-using previously developed land and seeking environmental as well as development gains for the use of previously

• Increasing woodland cover at Marston Vale community forest to 30% by 2030

• By 2010 at least 1192 Megawatts of installed capacity for renewable energy

• By 2020 at least 4250 Megawatts of installed capacity for renewable energy

• Municipal waste – recovery of 50% at 2010 and 70% at 2015

• Commercial and industrial waste – recovery of 72% at 2010 and 75% at 2015

• Eliminate landfilling of untreated municipal and commercial waste in the region by 2021

• Regional Biodiversity Action Plan targets are included in Appendix B.

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developed land • protecting and where appropriate enhancing biodiversity through

the protection of habitats and species and through creating new habitats through development

• providing a network of accessible multi-functional greenspace and

• reducing the demand for and use of water and other natural resources and reducing waste and increasing the sustainable management of waste.

East of England Plan Sustainability Appraisal (May 2008) – Regional Level SA Objectives: • Achieve sustainable levels of prosperity and economic growth • Deliver more sustainable use of land • Deliver more sustainable locations patterns • Protect and maintain vulnerable regional assets (natural, built

and historic environment) • Reduce greenhouse gas emissions • Share access to services and benefits of prosperity fairly • Use natural resources efficiently: re use, use recycled where

possible • Cut waste • Avoid exploiting global environment • Revitalise town centres to promote return to sustainable urban

living

• No targets or indicators are stated.

None. The SA objectives used for the RSS could be used to inform the development of the SA objectives for the SA of the plan.

Milton Keynes and South Midlands Sub-Regional Strategy (March 2005) – Regional Level Objectives are: • To achieve a major increase in the number of new homes

provided in the area, meeting needs for affordable housing and a range of types and sizes of market housing

• To provide for a commensurate level of economic growth and

• 19,500 dwellings in the period 2001-21 in the growth area which covers Bedford and Mid Beds

• 19,800 jobs growth in Bedford

Support the objectives of the SRS where appropriate

Take account of the objectives, targets and indicators when developing the SA Framework

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developing skills in the workforce, particularly in the high value, knowledge-based sectors

• To locate development in the main urban areas to support urban renaissance, regeneration of deprived areas, recycling of land and sustainable patterns of travel

• To ensure that development contributes to an improved environment, by requiring high standards of design and sustainable construction, protecting and enhancing environmental assets (including landscape and biodiversity) and providing green space and related infrastructure (green infrastructure)

• To meet existing infrastructure needs and provide for requirements generated by new development, by investing in new and improved infrastructure, by planning to reduce the need to travel and by creating a shift to more sustainable modes of travel and

• To create sustainable communities by ensuring that economic, environmental, social and cultural infrastructure needs are met in step with growth

Key priorities for Bedford and the northern Marston Vale: • Achieving the revitalisation of Bedford Town Centre and

enhancing retail, cultural and leisure facilities. • Developing the local economy to provide significant increase in

employment, by identifying and fostering a range of growth sectors, particularly in high value knowledge-based sectors, with appropriate effort going into business support and skills development. This will include creating a focus for offices in the town centre, through the provision of a range of accommodation

• Securing a significantly higher rate of housing delivery in the area principally through the implementation of existing

and Mid Beds 2001-21 (reference value no a target) (11,400 in Beds Borough)

Indicators: • housing completions • net change in jobs total • commencement/completion

of key infrastructure • development on previously

developed/green field land • changes in skills levels • higher and further education

delivery indicators • health and social care

delivery indicators • environment indicators

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commitments • reducing the need to travel by private vehicle by integrating

land use and transport planning, achieving a step-change in the attractiveness of public transport, including quality bus corridors and park and ride schemes, improving the attractiveness of walking and cycling, and implementing travel demand management measures. Priorities will include the Bedford Bus Station area and creating improved interchange arrangements, including convenient and attractive access to railway stations

• developing cultural and heritage-focused tourism in Bedford by enhancing existing – and providing new – cultural and heritage facilities and attractions, and by providing a cultural quarter near the town centre and an increased range of centrally located overnight accommodation

• supporting the continued strategy of environmental enhancement in the Marston Vale and the creation and enhancement of green infrastructure, notably through the Forest of Marston Vale. This includes resolving land use and environmental conflicts which may have an impact on the growth area strategy.

East Midlands Regional Plan (March 2009) – Regional Level Core Objectives a) To ensure that the existing housing stock and new affordable and market housing address need and extend choice in all communities in the region. b) To reduce social exclusion through: • the regeneration of disadvantaged areas, • the reduction of inequalities in the location and distribution of

employment, housing, health and other community facilities and services, and by;

• responding positively to the diverse needs of different

• deliver 324,100 net additional dwellings between 2006 and 2026 (excluding Northamptonshire)

• deliver 128,200 net additional dwellings between 2001 and 2026 in Northamptonshire

• 60% new development on previously developed land

• regional targets for biodiversity

Be aware of the effect of these objectives on the borough when preparing the Plan

Be aware of the effect of these objectives on the borough when undertaking the SA

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communities. c) To protect and enhance the environmental quality of urban and rural settlements to make them safe and attractive places to live, work and invest in, through promoting: • ‘green infrastructure’; • enhancement of the ‘urban fringe’; • involvement of Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnerships; and • high quality design which reflects local distinctiveness. d) To improve the health and mental, physical and spiritual well being of the Region’s residents through improvements in: • air quality; • ‘affordable warmth’; • the availability of good quality housing; and • access to health, leisure and recreation facilities and services. e) To improve economic prosperity, employment opportunities and regional competitiveness through: • the improvement of access to labour and markets; and • ensuring that sufficient good quality land and premises are

available to support economic activity in sectors targeted for growth by the Regional Economic Strategy.

f) To improve accessibility to jobs, homes and services through the: • promotion and integration of opportunities for walking and

cycling; • promotion of the use of high quality public transport; and • encouragement of patterns of new development that reduce the

need to travel especially by car. g) To protect and enhance the environment through the: • protection, enhancement, sensitive use and management of the

Region’s natural, cultural and historic assets, giving particular attention to designated sites of international importance;

are set out in Appendix 3 • improve water efficiency in

new development to a target of 25%

• recycling and composting of municipal solid waste of 30% by 2010 and 50% by 2015

• develop CHP and district heating to achieve 511 MWe by 2010 and 1120 MWe by 2020

• renewable energy targets are set out in Appendix 5.

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• avoidance of significant harm and securing adequate mitigation or compensation for any unavoidable damage;

• reducing the amount of waste produced and increasing the amount recycled or otherwise beneficially managed; and

• recognition of the limits to the capacity of the environment to accept further development without irreversible damage.

h) To achieve a ‘step change’ increase in the level of the Region’s biodiversity through: • the management and extension of habitats to secure net gains in

biodiversity; and • ensuring that no net loss of priority habitats or species is allowed

to occur. i) To reduce the causes of climate change by minimising emissions of C02 in order to meet the national target through: • maximising ‘resource efficiency’ and the level of renewable

energy generation; • making best use of existing infrastructure; • promoting sustainable design and construction; and • ensuring that new development, particularly major traffic

generating uses, is located so as to reduce the need to travel, especially by private car.

j) To reduce the impacts of climate change, in particular the risk of damage to life and property from flooding and sea level change and the decline in water quality and resources. This will be achieved through the location, design and construction of new development in ways that include: • reducing the build up of heat island effects in urban areas; • providing carbon sinks; and • providing sustainable drainage and managing flood water. k) To minimise adverse environmental impacts of new development

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and promote optimum social and economic benefits through the promotion of sustainable design and construction techniques. South East Plan (May 2009) – Regional Level Core Objectives i. a sustainable balance between planning for economic, environmental and social benefits will be sought, to help improve quality of life for everyone in the South East ii. economic growth and competitiveness in the region will be sustained, with Gross Value Added (GVA) in the region increased by 3% per annum over the period 2006-2016 iii. new initiatives to tackle skills deficits will be promoted iv. a closer alignment between jobs and homes growth will be pursued v. economic and social disparities within the region will be reduced vi. a sufficient level of housing development will be delivered vii. a substantial increase in the supply of affordable housing will be pursued, through a package of measures to deliver this goal viii. adequate infrastructure will be provided in a way that keeps pace with development ix. key transport links will be improved, providing access for all, especially disadvantaged groups x. health provision and access will be improved xi. spatial planning in the region will take into account the needs of an ageing population and its implications xii. crime and the fear of crime will be reduced xiii. better natural resource management and efficiency will be pursued, leading to reductions in the consumption of water and energy and the production of waste xiv. new development will be delivered in a manner which mitigates the effects of, and adapts to, climate change xv. the best of the region’s historic, built and natural environment

• 60% new development on previously developed land

• reduce the region’s carbon dioxide emissions by at least 20% below 1990 levels by 2010, by at least 25% below 1990 levels by 2015 and by 80% by 2050

• deliver 654,000 net additional dwellings between 2006 and 2026

• meet regional biodiversity targets by 2026 for improving specific habitats listed in paragraph 9.24

• achieve minimum targets for electricity generation from renewable sources of – 620 MW by 2010, 895 MW by 2016, 1130MW by 2020, 1750 by 2026

• reduce growth of all waste to 1% per annum by 2010 and 0.5% per annum by 2020

• targets for diversion from landfill, and recycling / composting of all waste types set in Policies W5 and W6



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will be protected and where possible enhanced, both for its own sake and to underpin the social and economic development of the region xvi. new development will be of high quality sustainable design and construction, and be an asset to the region.

• use of secondary aggregates and recycled materials in the South East should increase from 6.6mtpa (29% of the guidelines for primary aggregate production in the region) to at least 7.7mtpa (34%) by 2016

London Plan (July 2011) – Regional Level Objectives - Ensuring London is: 1 A city that meets the challenges of economic and population growth in ways that ensure a sustainable, good and improving quality of life for all Londoners and helps tackle the huge issue of inequality among Londoners, including inequality in health outcomes. 2 An internationally competitive and successful city with a strong and diverse economy and an entrepreneurial spirit that benefit all Londoners and all parts of London; a city which is at the leading edge of innovation and research and which is comfortable with – and makes the most of – its rich heritage and cultural resources. 3 A city of diverse, strong, secure and accessible neighbourhoods to which Londoners feel attached, which provide all of its residents, workers, visitors and students – whatever their origin, background, age or status – with opportunities to realise and express their potential and a high quality environment for individuals to enjoy, live together and thrive. 4 A city that delights the senses and takes care over its buildings and streets, having the best of modern architecture while also making the most of London’s built heritage and which makes the most of and extends its wealth of open and green spaces and waterways, realising its potential for improving Londoners’ health,

Key performance indicators and targets are set out in Table 8.1

Be aware of the objectives of the neighbouring region when developing the plan.

Be aware of the neighbouring objectives of the region when undertaking the SA.

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welfare and development. 5 A city that becomes a world leader in improving the environment locally and globally, taking the lead in tackling climate change, reducing pollution, developing a low carbon economy and consuming fewer resources and using them more effectively. 6 A city where it is easy, safe and convenient for everyone to access jobs, opportunities and facilities with an efficient and effective transport system which actively encourages more walking and cycling and makes better use of the Thames, and supports delivery of all the objectives of this Plan. Sustainable Community Strategy (November 2009) – Local Level A number of aims are set within 7 key themes. Thriving • Encourage high value added inward investment, the retention

and development of local companies and the establishment of new start-up enterprises.

• Create a highly attractive, safe and successful town centre providing a distinctive and excellent range of activities and facilities which can be used and enjoyed by all.

• Market the Borough as a prime investment location, raising its profile and image and promoting investment opportunities.

• Support and work in partnership with the local tourism industry to expand what it has to offer and market the Borough as a tourist destination.

• Encourage economic participation and support people into jobs within urban and rural communities, by maximising employment opportunities for local people and promoting skills development.

• Improve the general business environment (the supply and quality of infrastructure, premises and services), in order to foster enterprise, encourage investment and sustain economic growth.

Greener

Detailed targets are not set as this is an overarching strategy to guide the more detailed plans and programmes of its partners. Progress is measured against national indicators.

The key themes and objectives of the Sustainable Community Strategy will feed into the Plan.

The Sustainable Community Strategy themes should feed into the objectives of the SA Framework.

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• Minimise carbon emissions and adapt to the impacts of climate change focussing on transport, business and homes.

• Minimise domestic and commercial waste production and maximise reuse and recycling.

• Develop a strong green infrastructure network through protecting, extending and linking landscapes, biodiversity sites, heritage sites, green spaces and paths.

• Improve the understanding, enjoyment and care for the natural and built environment.

• Protect and enhance our natural resources including air, soil and water to minimise the impacts of flooding, climate change and pollution.

• Reduce our dependence on fossil fuels. • Protect and enhance the rich biodiversity of the Borough Aspiring • Help all children and young people to achieve their full potential

through high quality teaching and learning in schools that have accessible community activities and facilities.

• Prioritise preventative services for children in their early years to help families stay together and thrive.

• Ensure vulnerable children and young people at risk of abuse and neglect are safeguarded and supported to a better life.

Healthy • Increase healthy life expectancy for all across the Borough. • Reduce health inequalities by focussing effort on deprived areas

and increasing opportunities for healthier lifestyles. • Improve help and advice to vulnerable adults and older people to

enable them to continue living in their own homes and so maintain their independence for as long as possible.

• Transform adult social care services by improving access,

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choice, control and advocacy for users and carers through the provision of self directed care.

• Improve dementia services by raising awareness and understanding, and providing earlier diagnosis, intervention and higher quality of care.

• Improve the safeguarding and well-being of vulnerable adults and older people.

Safer • Reduce burglary, robbery and other serious acquisitive crime

and criminal damage. • Tackle the issues which increase the likelihood of re-offending

and target prolific offenders. • Tackle anti-social behaviour • Reduce incidents of domestic violence. • Tackle crime and disorder by reducing drug dependency and

alcohol misuse. • Tackle the fear of crime. • Increase public confidence in the Partnership’s delivery of

community safety. Inclusive • Reduce the proportion of people living in poverty and so make a

positive difference to communities. • Promote activities that bring people and communities closer

together. • Encourage and support more people, particularly from under-

represented groups, to take on civic roles and volunteer within their communities.

• Create more opportunities, and provide support and advice, to enable people to influence local decisions.

• Encourage and enable more people to participate in local arts,

36





culture and sporting activities. • Ensure that marginalised and vulnerable people receive effective

support, advice and advocacy, and can access key services. Growing • Promote the construction of sufficient energy efficient new

homes, transport and infrastructure to support the growing economy and population and which can adapt to climate change.

• Improve the transport, community and public infrastructure of the whole Borough to support the economy, population and housing.

• Improve housing and transport for vulnerable people to promote their independence.

• Maintain and improve the condition of all existing housing and transport, including its energy efficiency and adaptability to climate change.

• Tackle the problems of air quality in the Borough. Bedford Borough Local Plan (October 2002) – Local Level 9 aims are stated: • to move towards more sustainable forms of development • to protect and enhance the existing built and natural

environment and the landscape • to meet the needs of the borough’s residents • to maintain and enhance the economic and social well being of

the borough • to protect and enhance Bedford’s role within the sub-region • to improve the quality of life for the borough’s residents • to improve the quality of new development within the borough • to improve communications and movement in and out of the

borough • to promote equal opportunities

Appendix B of the plan sets out indicators for each policy. Targets are: • 11,700 dwellings in the period

1991-2006 • 30% affordable housing on

qualifying sites • 80 ha of additional

employment land

Ensure the plan replaces policy where appropriate and complements saved policies

Consider whether the plan’s objectives are still relevant to the Borough

Core Strategy and Rural Issues Plan (April 2008) – Local Level

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Objectives: 1. Deliver the planned growth in Bedford, Kempston and the northern Marston Vale (Local Plan 2002 commitments – see Figure 2) to achieve a step change in the Borough’s role in the region. 2. Ensure future development is based upon sustainable development principles. 3. Provide guidance on where any future growth should occur (in the period up to 2021). 4. Provide quality housing to meet current and future needs of all sectors of the community. 5. Foster significant employment growth. 6. Direct retail development to the most appropriate locations. 7. Foster the regeneration of Bedford town centre to enable it to fulfil a greater role within the region. 8. Support the delivery of coordinated transport improvements with the emphasis on non-car modes, improving east-west communications and achieving greater transport interchange. 9. Encourage key rural communities to become more sustainable places to live and work. 10. Achieve high quality design that takes account of character, local distinctiveness and sustainable design principles, enables access and promotes community safety. 11. Protect and enhance the countryside, biodiversity and geodiversity, and the quality and connectivity of green infrastructure in the borough with particular emphasis on enhancing the Marston Vale. 12. Minimise the use of energy and encourage greater use of energy from renewable sources. 13. Provide a mechanism for the delivery of infrastructure (including health, education, transport, community, leisure and recreation facilities) in tandem with new development.

Targets and indicators are set out in Appendix F Table 2. • Housing development of

16,270 in the Growth Area between 2001-2021

• Minimum of 16,000 jobs to be provided in the borough by 2021

• Increase of 1300 net dwellings in the Rural Policy Area 2001-2021

• Up to 75 has of employment land to be provided in the borough by 2021.

• Capacity of 6,000 sq.m. net convenience goods floorspace by 2011 and 30,000 sq.m. net comparison goods floorspace by 2011 increasing to 47,000 sq.m. by 2016. (The Town Centre Area Action Plan allocates 31,200 sq.m. of retail floorspace, the delivery of which will be monitored by that plan).

• C7: Zero planning permissions granted contrary to Environment Agency advice.

• The plan will need to be in line with the objectives and policies of the Core Strategy and Rural Issues Plan (CSRIP).

• General policies of the CSRIP can be built upon in terms of detail in the Allocations and Designations Plan.

• Take account of the objectives, targets and indicators when developing the SA Framework.

• Build upon the evidence base collected in the production of the DPD and the SA.

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14. Protect and enhance the Borough’s built, cultural and community assets and the character of settlements and foster the development of the Borough as a destination for heritage and cultural tourism. 15. Protect the environment by minimising the risk of flooding and the effects of climate change and facilitating improvements in air quality. 16. Involve the community in the decisions about the planning of the Borough so they can influence and shape such decisions. Core Strategy and Rural Issues Plan Sustainability Appraisal (July 2006) – Local Level SA objectives: • to ensure that energy and water consumption is as efficient as

possible, thereby reducing overall consumption • to encourage the use of renewable resources and the provision

of renewable energy within the area • to reduce car journeys can congestion • to minimise waste production and support the recycling of

waste products • to maintain a high quality environment in terms of air, soil and

water quality • to reduce the risk of flooding • to conserve and enhance biodiversity • to maintain and enhance the diversity and distinctiveness of

landscape and townscape character • to conserve and enhance the historical and cultural

environment • to create or enhance spaces, places and buildings that wear,

look and work well • to ensure that everyone has access to a good quality affordable

home that meets their needs

• A series of indicators are used in the SA Framework (pages 4-5)

• Further indicators and available data is presented in Appendix 3 (pages 145-152)

Consider the use of the SA objectives for the SA where appropriate

39





• to reduce crime and the fear of crime • to maintain and enhance human health • to make opportunities for culture, leisure and recreation

available to all • to encourage a high performing and stable economy • to help people gain access to satisfying work appropriate to

their skills and potential • to maintain and enhance the vitality of the town centre • to help reduce poverty and social exclusion Central Bedfordshire Council - Core Strategy and Development Management Policies DPD (November 2009) – Local Level Strategic objectives - • To deliver the regional and sub regional spatial planning

requirements of the East of England Plan, the emerging South East Plan and the Milton Keynes and South Midlands Sub-Regional Strategy.

• To maintain the existing Green Belt. • To plan for the highest quality sustainable development in the

most sustainable locations whilst ensuring that new development has a positive impact on communities and is supported by necessary infrastructure.

• To identify a hierarchy of settlements and concentrate development in the larger settlements, while seeking opportunities to direct growth to one or two key locations. In particular to: i. deliver planned growth in the identified Major Service Centres and consolidate and develop their role ii. deliver planned growth in the identified Minor Service Centres and allow development to serve the needs of their population and their rural catchment areas iii. Provide limited development outside of the identified Major



40





and Minor Service Centres. • To make Mid Bedfordshire a more environmentally, economically

and socially sustainable place that positively responds to the challenges of climate change but is prepared for its effects.

• To support the role of towns and villages as locations for accessible services by the retention and enhancement of existing facilities and the provision of appropriate new ones.

• Taking account of the rural nature of Mid Bedfordshire, reduce the need to travel, promote more sustainable transport modes, maximise capacity of the existing transport network and add additional capacity and new infrastructure where needed.

• To provide the right mix of new high quality homes, including enough affordable homes to meet identified needs.

• To strengthen the local economy, providing new employment opportunities that help reduce the level of out-commuting.

• To ensure development respects and contributes to the district’s diverse local character.

• To enhance and manage natural resources of the district in a sustainable and integrated way to bring about an increase in biodiversity, a net gain in green infrastructure, and the retention and enhancement of landscape character.

Central Bedfordshire Council – Site Allocations DPD (April 2011) – Local Level Allocates sites for housing, employment and other uses. None None Central Bedfordshire Council – Development Strategy – Pre-Submission Draft (January 2013) – Local Level Strategic objectives - • 28,700 new homes will be delivered between 2011 and 2031 to

meet the housing needs of all our existing and future residents, ensuring the efficient use of land to provide safe, sustainable communities and development, promoting sustainable forms of transport and encouraging healthy lifestyles. Emphasis will be

Be aware of the effect of these objectives on the borough when preparing the Plan.


41





placed upon the regeneration needs of the Dunstable & Houghton Regis area as well as the wider urban conurbation.

• A variety of housing types and sizes will be provided, including larger family homes. Up to 30% of the homes delivered will be affordable and will be provided across a range of tenures to facilitate social inclusion. All new housing will be located so as to offer good accessibility to jobs, services and facilities.

• 27,000 new jobs will be delivered across a variety of sectors so as to ensure the economic potential of both the urban and rural area is achieved and to reduce the level of out-commuting. An appropriate mix of sites will be provided of sufficient scale to ensure the right balance between new homes and jobs, and to promote Central Bedfordshire as a location for economic growth and success.

• Development will promote our unique identity and maximise the potential of our habitats and natural environment by respecting and enhancing our green spaces, our natural, historic and cultural heritage and our landscape designations. Other than in very special circumstances, the newly defined Green Belt within Central Bedfordshire will be respected, protected and maintained.

• Development will maximise the potential for creating strong, vibrant, healthy and inclusive communities, enhancing a sense of place and delivering social and economic benefits for all our communities and businesses.

• The town centres will be regenerated, promoted and enhanced, and their viability and vitality will be supported, building upon their own unique characteristics and attributes to meet their economic, retailing, leisure and social potential. High quality, well designed development which is sensitive to our existing heritage, buildings, landscapes and townscapes will contribute

42





to the quality of our town centres. Within the urban areas, the use of previously developed land will be promoted and important recreation facilities and open spaces will be protected, enhanced.

• The distinctive and individual characteristics of Central Bedfordshire will be reflected across all new development at the same time as incorporating new, and innovative designs. High quality, well designed, sustainable development will take account of the need to adapt to climate change as well as the need to be energy efficient by incorporating standards such as the Code for Sustainable Homes.

• Central Bedfordshire will enable the delivery of appropriate infrastructure to facilitate and complement the delivery of housing and economic growth required by our residents, communities and businesses to meet their needs, such as new educational establishments, healthcare services, social and religious venues, roads, rail, public transport, utilities and broadband facilities. This will be secured through financial contributions from a variety of sources as well as through planning conditions.

Milton Keynes Core Strategy (July 2013) – Local Level Strategic objectives - • To deliver land for at least 28,000 new homes within the

Borough between 2010 and 2026. This will comprise: • An allocation of a maximum of 2,500 homes in the areas

identified as Strategic Reserve Areas south east of the city in the Local Plan.

• Completion of development on existing Local Plan sites and land with planning permission comprising approximately 24,000 homes.

• 1,200 homes in sustainable settlements in the rural area.



43





• To work jointly with neighbouring authorities and other key organisations on the planning of any development located on the edge of Milton Keynes (but outside the current MK boundary) so that these areas are integrated with the city and contribute to its role and character.

• To allocate and manage the development of employment land and pursue a vigorous economic development strategy sufficient to deliver a minimum of 1.5 jobs for every house build in Milton Keynes so that the business sector and local economy are supported, existing firms can expand, new firms are attracted, the level of working skills among the local population is enhanced and the area's resident population can find work locally.

• To assist greater economic prosperity by improving the local opportunities for learning and to increase the local level of knowledge and skills through the establishment of a MK university, and support the development of MK College and the Science and Innovation Initiative.

• To promote the development of Central Milton Keynes as the vibrant cultural centre of the sub-region by making it the main location within the city for retail, leisure, cultural and larger office developments (around 12,000m2 of office floorspace per year) and for up to 5,000 homes by 2026.

• To seek the protection of existing key services and facilities in sustainable rural settlements and to encourage the development of further provision, including shops, education, community and health services.

• To aim to reduce health inequalities, deprivation and improve housing quality and access to services for those living in the areas targeted by the suite of documents that form the Regeneration Strategy, as well as any other areas identified

44





during the plan period. • To facilitate the delivery of housing that meets the needs of all

sections of the community through: • Providing sufficient developable land for new housing. • Construction of viable levels of diverse housing including

affordable, supported and specialist housing. • Taking account of the need for houses in multiple

occupation. • To manage increased travel demands through:

• Promoting improvements to public transport and supporting the development of an East - West rail link between Oxford and Cambridge.

• Encouraging an increased number of people to walk and cycle by developing an expanded and improved Redway network.

• Extending the grid road pattern into any major new development areas.

• Utilising demand management measures to reduce the growth of road congestion, whilst upgrading key traffic routes such as the A421 and the A509.

• To mitigate the Borough’s impact on climate change and reduce CO2 emissions through: • Implementing higher than national requirements for

sustainable homes and buildings. • Locating development away from areas of flood risk. • Promoting community energy networks and strategic

renewable energy developments. • Reducing waste generation and increasing the amount of

recycling. • Sustainable transport initiatives.

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• To require that the layout and design of new development creates safe, healthy, sustainable built environments with easy access to open space, public transport and everyday facilities, delivering a high quality of urban design, architecture and public realm and creates places with identity.

• To protect, maintain and enhance the important features, character and assets of the New Town and the towns and villages throughout the Borough.

• To encourage healthy lifestyles with the provision of recreation facilities and biodiversity by enhancing the linear park network and extending it into new developments while conserving and protecting key landscapes and important habitats.

• To develop Milton Keynes as an International Sporting City. • To manage mineral extraction, safeguarding reserves and

processing facilities, restoring worked sites, and maximising use of secondary and recycled materials.

• To work with public service and infrastructure providers (principally via the Milton Keynes Partnership Local Investment Plan) to ensure that the social and economic growth planned in the Borough and neighbouring local authorities is facilitated by the timely provision of appropriate new and improved facilities such as public transport, schools, community halls, sport and recreation facilities, transport interchanges, health services (including MK General Hospital), emergency services, highways and rail improvements, and a residual waste treatment plant.

North Northamptonshire Core Spatial Strategy (June 2008) – Local Level Objective One – Green Living Ensure that development in North Northamptonshire becomes a benchmark for ‘green living’ and makes it easy for people to live in an environmentally friendly way through using the highest

Performance indicators and targets are set out in table 7

Be aware of these objectives when developing the plan.

Be aware of these objectives when undertaking the SA.

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standards of design (including energy efficiency/renewable energy, sustainable construction methods and green technologies), promoting green industries and ensuring sustainable transport choice. This will maximise environmental performance and community safety and encourage healthy lifestyles. Objective Two – Environment Enhance and manage the built and natural resources of North Northamptonshire in a sustainable and integrated manner and in the context of major growth and the challenges of climate change. To bring about a step change in biodiversity management and a net gain in Green Infrastructure; retaining and enhancing landscape and townscape character and distinctiveness, through the opportunities afforded by development and investment. Objective Three – Network of settlements Create a sustainable urban-focused development framework based on maintaining distinctive and separate settlements and on optimising the use of the existing structure of a north-south urban core with a spine of rural service centres in the east. Ensure the scale and location of growth is shaped by the role and character of settlements in this network, supporting greater self-sufficiency for the area as a whole. Objective Four – Town Centre focus Ensure that services and facilities, including cultural provision, are located in town centres and other areas of focus in North Northamptonshire, and that opportunities to maximise and enhance the provision of leisure, retail and cultural facilities are taken, making these places more self-sufficient and real hearts for their communities. Objective Five – Connectivity and modal shift Increase transport choice to enable modal shift and enhance North Northamptonshire’s national, regional, sub-regional and local

47





connections through improvements to public transport and road corridors to meet the future role expected of them, and support the development of a strong network of settlements. Objective Six – Infrastructure and services Secure provision of the infrastructure, services and facilities needed to sustain and enhance existing communities and support the development of North Northamptonshire, including establishing the priorities for future public and private investment and collaboration, to build confidence in North Northamptonshire for investors and others. Objective Seven – Economy Build a more diverse, dynamic and self reliant economy, which is not overly dependent on in or out commuting to make it reach its potential, through providing the workplaces, jobs, skills and sites to bring this about. Objective Eight– Quality of life Strengthen the quality of life throughout North Northamptonshire by supporting initiatives that build stable, safe, healthy and strong communities; respecting cultural diversity and distinctiveness; planning new development to help reduce crime, anti-social behaviour and the fear of crime; promoting well-being and health; ensuring that development is of local character; and supporting area based renewal. Objective Nine – Regeneration Ensure the regeneration of Corby and the other areas of North Northamptonshire that need it, through maximising the use of brownfield land for new development, providing the necessary supporting infrastructure and inspiring community confidence in the need for positive change. To build on the distinctive features and assets of each settlement to support and facilitate this, including the promotion of art in the public realm.

48





Objective Ten– Housing Needs Deliver the quantity and mix of housing to meet identified needs in North Northamptonshire, ensuring that a sufficient proportion is affordable and accessible to all. Maximise the use and regeneration of brownfield land in meeting these target, and through using high quality design that makes best use of land without compromising the quality of the local environment. Wellingborough Site Specific Proposals Development Plan Preferred Options (November 2010) – Local Level Allocates sites for housing, employment and other uses. None None East Northamptonshire Four Towns Plan Scoping and Issues Consultation (November 2012) – Local Level Allocates sites for housing, employment and other uses. None None Huntingdonshire Local Plan 2036 – Draft Plan (May 2013) – Local Level Strategy and principles for development The Council will support proposals which contribute to the delivery of new housing, economic growth and diversification and infrastructure provision through the following development strategy: • 3 strategic expansion locations will make provision for

approximately 12,450 new homes giving a range of accommodation to meet the needs of all sectors of the community and to facilitate growth of the local economy, in particular through the designated enterprise zone at Alconbury Weald

• market towns and key service centres will make provision for approximately 7,850 new homes and support economic and community development that serves needs in the most sustainable locations, promotes the vitality and viability of established communities and maintains their character and identity

• the Ouse valley, Great Fen, Grafham Water/ Brampton Woods area and the Nene valley will be priority areas for strategic

The Council will monitor the supply of land and implementation and effectiveness of policies through its Annual Monitoring Report.

None None

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green infrastructure enhancement of public access Development proposals will be expected to: a. prioritise the use of previously developed land in accessible

locations; b. contribute to the creation or maintenance of mixed and socially

inclusive communities by integrating development of homes, jobs, services and facilities;

c. make efficient use of land, buildings and infrastructure within existing settlements whilst preserving local character and distinctiveness;

d. promote healthy, active lifestyles by protecting and enhancing green space, sport and recreation facilities

e. maximise opportunities for use of public transport, walking and cycling;

f. provide appropriate infrastructure to meet the needs generated by the proposed development;

g. support the local economy by providing a mix of employment opportunities suitable for local people;

h. minimise greenhouse gas emissions, oxides of nitrogen, fine particles and other forms of pollution;

i. reduce water consumption and wastage, minimising the impact on water resources and quality and managing flood risk; and

j. protect and enhance the historic environment and the range and vitality of characteristic landscapes, habitats and species.

Sites are allocated for housing, employment and other uses. AIR Air Quality Strategy for England, Scotland and Northern Ireland (July 2007) – National Level National air quality objectives are listed in Table 2 pages 20-22. UK standards are set out for: • Particles (PM10) • Particles (PM2.5)

National targets for the UK are set out in Table 2 pages 20-22. • Nitrogen Dioxide 200μg.m3

not to be exceeded more than

Ensure the plan takes account of the UK air quality standards

Take account of the objectives, targets and indicators when developing the SA

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• Nitrogen Dioxide • Ozone • Sulphur Dioxide • Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons • Benzene • 1,3-butadiene • Carbon monoxide • Lead • Nitrogen Oxides • Sulphur Dioxide • Ozone: protection of vegetation and ecosystems

18 times a year (1 hour mean)

• Nitrogen Dioxide 40μg.m3 (annual mean)

• Sulphur Dioxide 226μg.m3 not to be exceeded more than 35 times a year (15 minute mean)

• Sulphur Dioxide 350μg.m3 not to be exceeded more than 25 times a year (1 hour mean)

• Sulphur Dioxide 125μg.m3 not to be exceeded more than 3 times a year (24 hour mean)

Framework

Air Quality Management Area Order (November 2009) – Local Level The Town Centre AQMA 5 was declared on 6th November 2009 for Nitrogen Dioxide, the order also revoked AQMQ 1 (Stewartby for Sulphur Dioxide), AQMA 2 and 3 (High Street and Prebend Street as the new AQMA encompassed these areas) and AQMA 4 (Great Barford for Nitrogen Dioxide). An Action Plan is to be produced with specific measures.

The Order contains no indicators or targets

Ensure that future development in the area considers air quality

Take account of the AQMA in this area

BIODIVERSITY, FLORA AND FAUNA; CULTURE, HERITAGE AND LANDSCAPE PPS9 Biodiversity and Geological Conservation (August 2005) – National Level • to promote sustainable development by ensuring that biological

and geological diversity are conserved and enhanced as an integral part of social, environmental and economic development, so that policies and decisions about the development and use of land integrate biodiversity and geological diversity with other considerations

• to conserve, enhance and restore the diversity of England’s

No targets or indicators are included in the document.

Take account of the guidance in the PPS when developing the Plan

Take account of the objectives when developing the SA Framework

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wildlife and geology by sustaining, and where possible improving, the quality and extent of natural habitat and geological and geomorphological sites; the natural physical processes on which they depend; and the populations of naturally occurring species which they support

• to contribute to rural renewal and urban renaissance by - enhancing biodiversity in green spaces and among

developments so that they are used by wildlife and valued by people, recognising that healthy functional ecosystems can contribute to a better quality of life and to people’s sense of well-being and

- ensuring that developments take account of the role and value of biodiversity in supporting economic diversifications and contributing to a high quality environment.

PPS5 Planning for the Historic Environment (March 2010) – National Level To deliver sustainable development by ensuring that policies and decisions concerning the historic environment – • recognise that heritage assets are a non-renewable resource • take account of the wider social, cultural, economic and

environmental benefits of heritage conservation; and • recognise that intelligently managed change may sometimes be

necessary if heritage assets are to be maintained for the long term.

To conserve England’s heritage assets in a manner appropriate to their significance by ensuring that – • decisions are based on the nature, extent and level of that

significance, investigated to a degree proportionate to the importance of the heritage asset

• wherever possible, heritage assets are put to an appropriate and viable use that is consistent with their conservation

• the positive contribution of such heritage assets to local

There are no targets or indicators in the PPS.

Take account of the PPS when developing the Plan


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character and sense of place is recognised and valued; and • consideration of the historic environment is integrated into

planning policies, promoting place-shaping. To contribute to our knowledge and understanding of our past by ensuring that opportunities are taken to capture evidence from the historic environment and to make this publicly available, particularly where a heritage asset is to be lost. Our Environment Our Future: Regional Environment Strategy (July 2003) – Regional Level Priorities (a distillation of the Regional Environment Strategy to focus on the most significant regional environmental challenges) agreed by the EERA Environment and Resources Panel in 2005: Overarching priority (1) - Reduce greenhouse gas emissions in recognition of the threat of climate change Priority (2) - Keep development within environmental limits, with specific measures to take account of water shortages and flood risk Priority (3) - Reduce road traffic and car dependence Priority (4) - Maintain and enhance environmental capital Priority (5) - Support environmental business by promoting the green economy and its sustainable development Priority (6) - Reduce the amount of waste regionally

Pages 60-66 provides key indicators for the key actions of the strategy.

Ensure the DPD contributes to the priorities of the strategy

Take account of the priorities when developing the SA Framework

Sub-Regional Green Infrastructure Guide (April 2005) – Regional Level There are no overall objectives of the guide. • Growth Area openspace 138

hectares 2001-21 • BAP habitat creation targets

(page 33) • BAP habitat restoration and

management targets (page 33)

Take account of the targets where appropriate

A Better Life: Cultural Strategy for the East of England (September 2006) – Regional Level Four key themes: Indicators from the Living East Take account of the Take account of the

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• embedding culture in growth and regeneration: increase investment in culture led growth and regeneration to make the East of England a leading light for the rest of the country

• developing creativity: become the creative workshop of the UK by offering the best opportunities to creative people and businesses in the country

• growing cultural tourism: become recognised as a premier cultural tourism destination in England by 2020

• Capturing the benefits of the London 2012 Olympic Games and Paralympic Games: maximise the positive impacts of the games coming to London in 2012

Action Plan 2006-08: • Level of investment in culture • Increase in the size of the

cultural sector as a proportion of the regional economy

• Number of people taking part in cultural activities

• Number of Quality Assured Visitor Attractions and Welcome to Excellence

• Visitor numbers • Cultural activity planned

around the Olympics

cultural targets and objectives

objectives and indicators when developing the SA Framework

Regional Woodland Strategy EERA/Forestry Commission (November 2003) – Regional Level Objectives of the strategy: • enhanced awareness raising and education • management of the existing trees and woodlands of the region

focussed on the benefits they provide, and • continued tree planting and woodland expansion Three spatial planning objectives: • SP1 Promote sustainable developments set within well

designed green space of which trees and woodland play a functional part.

• SP2 Improve protection of existing woodland and trees. • SP3 Create greener road corridors integrated into the wider

landscape.

There are no targets or indicators in the document.

The objectives of the strategy should be reflected in the Plan.

Take account of the objectives when developing the SA Framework.

Green Infrastructure Strategy, Cambridgeshire Horizons (2003)– Regional Level The section of the plan of relevance to Bedford Borough is Existing Green Corridor 1 – the Ouse Valley. It has the objectives of connectivity, accessibility and landscape/biodiversity enhancement.

None specific to Bedford Borough.

The plan should be aware of the wider priorities in the region.

Take account of the objective when developing the SA

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Framework. Bedfordshire and Luton Biodiversity Action Plan (2001) – Local Level Wildlife Priority Areas are identified and objectives for habitats within each of them put forward as follows. Objectives for farmland habitats are – • Enhance and increase the extent and wildlife value of farmland

habitats, by encouraging positive management with reference to priorities identified in this action plan.

• Promote the creation and linking of new and existing habitats through advice services and available incentive schemes.

• Increase the populations of declining farmland species, in particular national priority species, by providing advice, promoting appropriate management and undertaking ecological research with regard to the effects of global climate change.

• Encourage more community involvement in and raise awareness of the conservation of farmland biodiversity.

• Encourage the agricultural communities to take positive action for wildlife.

Objectives for lowland calcareous grassland habitats are - • Maintain or enhance the wildlife value of existing calcareous

grassland. • Prevent the loss of calcareous grassland in Bedfordshire and

Luton. • Promote the restoration of downland landscape through the

creation and linking new and existing habitats. • Maintain or increase the populations of declining chalk species

where possible in particular national priority species. • Encourage more community involvement in and awareness of

the issues surrounding calcareous grassland management and biodiversity.

Each Action Plan has its own targets. Farmland: • Sympathetically manage 50%

of ponds by 2010 • Achieve the favourable

management of 50% of ancient/species rich hedgerows by 2010

• All hedgerows to be locally sourced by 2010

• Halt loss of ancient/species rich hedgerows by 2010

• Create 50ha of species rich grassland using local seed sources by 2010

Heathland: • 105ha of heathland on the

greensand ridge by 2010 • Maintain and increase

population of a range of heathland species and habitats

Lowland acid grassland: • 125ha of acid grassland on

the greensand ridge by 2010 • acid grassland-related

habitats maintained,

Seek to achieve the objectives and targets of the Plan.

Take account of the objectives and targets and when developing the SA Framework

55





• Monitor the extent and quality of key habitats and the population of key species to improve the basis for decision making.

Objectives for woodland habitats are - • To conserve and enhance all ancient semi-natural woodland. • Encourage the creation of new woodland with due attention to

local distinctiveness. Landscape, history, soil types etc and the objectives of the landowners.

• To conserve and enhance other existing woodland with due attention to local distinctiveness, landscape, history, soil types etc and the objectives of landowners.

• To encourage the implementation of management strategies that include economic viability and improved biodiversity as key aims.

• To encourage broader public understanding and public awareness of the value of woodland to the community and the importance of the process and management strategies that lead to the conservation and enhancement of the woodland biodiversity.

• To monitor and review the implementation and impact of the BAP for woodland habitat.

Objectives for waterways and wetlands habitats are - • Maintain or enhance the quality of existing habitats. • Ensure water quality and quantity is sufficient to benefit

biodiversity. • Create new habitats and links between habitats where

appropriate. • Restore or repair damaged and degraded habitats. • Survey and monitor key habitats and species to determine the

success of the biodiversity action plan.

conserved, improved Lowland calcareous grassland: • favourable management of all

county wildlife site calcareous grasslands by 2010

• create 50ha of chalk grassland by 2010

Woodland: • restore 2 sites to favourable

by 2010 • create by natural colonisation

10ha of native species wet woodland

• further 40ha of wet woodland to positive management by 2010

• increaser by 100% the semi ancient woodland in management schemes

• increase woodland in the county to 1500ha by 2015

• no reduction in ancient semi-natural woodland

• increase by 10 number of woods with public access by 2010

Waterways and wetlands: • 80ha by 2010 • establish self sustaining river

fisheries by 2010

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• Increase populations of national and local priority species. • Promote public understanding, awareness and involvement in

the conservation of waterways and wetlands. • Promote and improve relationships and understanding between

all those who use waterways and wetlands. Objectives for urban habitats are – • Enhance the extent and biodiversity value of urban habitats

through appropriate and long term sustainable management. • Promote the creation of new habitats and the linking of habitats. • Identify and protect important sites within the urban area for

people and biodiversity. • Monitor and evaluate the success of the actions in this plan in

meeting its targets. • Increase accessibility to greenspace and use by local people. • Increase community involvement in and raise awareness of the

value of urban biodiversity. Species Action Plans are available for:

• Bats • Dormouse • European Otter • Water Vole • Broad-fruited cornsalad • Field Cow-wheat • Greater broomrape • Grey mouse-ear • Ground-pine • Adder • Black hairstreak • Song thrush • Spined loach

• Maintain ecological quality of River Great Ouse by 2010

• Establish pollarding system in 50% of riverside willows by 2010

• Establish 3 wetland projects by 2010

Urban habitats: • Accessible informal

greenspace less than 300m from home

• LNR of 1ha per 1000 population

• 1 20ha site within 2km of home, 1 100ha site within 5km of homes, 1 500ha site within 10km of home

• 60% of schools to have wildlife area by 2010

• 50% of churchyards managed for biodiversity by 2010

• 1 tree per 100 population by 2010

• All county sites to become LNR by 2010

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• Truncatellina cylindrical (a snail) • White-clawed crayfish

Marston Vale Forest Plan (2000) – Local Level Corporate aims of the Community Forests: • to regenerate the environment of the Green Belt and equivalent

areas, where it is public policy to keep it open, and help to ensure that it is permanently green and open

• to improve the landscape of the area, including reclamation of derelict land, to create a visually exciting and functionally diverse environment

• to increase opportunities for sport and recreation, including artistic and cultural events, and access

• to protect areas of high quality landscape or historical or archaeological interest

• to protect sites of nature conservation value and create new opportunities for nature conservation

• to provide new opportunities for educational use of the area, and ensure the mosaic of habitats in the forest can be used for the full range of environmental education needs of the surrounding schools. Also to ensure that urban schools are not disadvantaged in meeting the needs of the National Curriculum

• to protect the best agricultural land and increase opportunities for farm diversification elsewhere in accordance with Government agricultural and local planning policies

• to establish a supply of timber and other woodland products • to achieve a high level of local community commitment to the

concept and involvement in its implementation • to give public and private sector confidence in the long-term

prospects for the area and to provide a proper base for investment. To improve the environment near housing and

No indicators or targets are included in the document.

Take account of the aims of the community forest

Take account of the aims when developing the SA Framework

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local industry and to increase the value of properties and business

• to seek private sector support to implement the forest and to invest in leisure and other relevant services

• to create jobs in the new woodland industries, both management of woodland and use of the raw materials. To create jobs in the leisure industry developed in and around the Community Forest. To sustain other local jobs by providing an outstanding environment as a comparative economic advantage over competitor areas

• to complement the Government’s priorities for inner cities, by providing for associated leisure and open space needs at the physically closest locations

• to remain flexible in the light of changes, such as in the leisure market

Bedfordshire and Luton Strategic Green Infrastructure Plan (February 2007) – Local Level The objectives and detailed requirements that the Green Infrastructure Consortium set out for the Plan can be summarised as the following: • to define strategic green infrastructure, assess existing

provision and identify deficiencies in strategic provision; • to bring together and map available data and information on

existing strategic landscape, historic environment, biodiversity, accessible greenspace and access route assets;

• to integrate opportunities for strategic enhancement of landscape, historic environment, biodiversity, accessible greenspace and access route resources, identified in consultation with stakeholders through workshops;

• using the analysis, to develop an integrated strategic green infrastructure network that links in with similar strategic

Recommendation for implementation are included in section 3.8 (pages 117-118).

The objectives of the plan and the recommendations for implantation should be taken into account in the production of the Plan.


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networks in adjacent counties at the sub-regional scale. Bedford Green Infrastructure Plan (November 2009) – Local Level Complements the strategic green infrastructure plan, identifies more detailed spatial priorities across Bedford Borough and provides detailed background information to support policies and proposals in the LDF. Objectives: • To protect and where possible enhance the rich landscape,

biodiversity and the historic environment of Bedford Borough. • To provide new green infrastructure assets for both existing and

new communities • To improve access and links for people and wildlife between

existing and proposed green infrastructure assets. • To manage the green infrastructure network to high standards

of environmental quality and sustainability. • To deliver integrated social, economic and environmental

benefits that contribute to the quality of life in Bedford Borough. • To minimise and mitigate the impacts of climate change.

Information given on assets and opportunities.

Take objectives and opportunities into account in producing the Plan.


Bedford Borough Landscape Character Assessment (August 2007) – Local Level Sets detailed guidelines for landscape management in relation to new development for individual landscape character areas.

There are no targets or indicators in the Assessment.

Take opportunities into account in producing the Plan.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT PPS4 Planning for Sustainable Economic Growth (December 2009) – National Level To help achieve sustainable economic growth, the Government’s objectives for planning are to: • build prosperous communities by improving the economic

performance of cities, towns, regions, sub-regions and local areas, both urban and rural;

• reduce the gap in economic growth rates between regions, promoting regeneration and tackling deprivation;

There are no targets or indicators in the PPS.

Plan should identify sites to provide a range of opportunities


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• deliver more sustainable patterns of development, reduce the need to travel, especially by car and respond to climate change;

• promote the vitality and viability of town and other centres as important places for communities. To do this, the Government wants:

– new economic growth and development of main town centre uses to be focused in existing centres, with the aim of offering a wide range of services to communities in an attractive and safe environment and remedying deficiencies in provision in areas with poor access to facilities

– competition between retailers and enhanced consumer choice through the provision of innovative and efficient shopping, leisure, tourism and local services in town centres, which allow genuine choice to meet the needs of the entire community (particularly socially excluded groups)

– the historic, archaeological and architectural heritage of centres to be conserved and, where appropriate, enhanced to provide a sense of place and a focus for the community and for civic activity

• raise the quality of life and the environment in rural areas by promoting thriving, inclusive and locally distinctive rural communities whilst continuing to protect the open countryside for the benefit of all.

PPG8 Telecommunications (August 2001) – National Level • Aim is to facilitate the growth of new and existing

telecommunications systems whilst keeping the environmental impact to a minimum.

• Authorities should not seek to prevent competition between different operators and should not question the need for the telecommunications system which the proposed development is to support.


Take account of the guidance in the PPG when developing the Plan


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Good Practice Guide on Planning for Tourism (May 2006) – National Level • maximise the benefits of tourism, in particular ensuring that the

development is able to reach its potential to contribute to tourism in the area and for local communities to enjoy those benefits;

• identify optimal locations, for example to maximise synergies with other tourist attractions and to promote opportunities for access by public transport;

• integrate development with its surroundings both in terms of design and layout and in the way that the service or facility is able to function; and

• avoid adverse impacts, for example by disturbance to activities on adjacent land.

Indicators suggested are: • demographic data • visitor data

Take account of the guidance when developing the Plan

Take account of the objectives and indicators when developing the SA Framework

Regional Economic Strategy 2008-31 (2008) – Regional Level Regional ambitions – • Annual growth in real workplace-based GVA per capita of 2.3

per cent and GVA per worker of 2.1 per cent between 2008 and 2031

• Employment rate for the working population of 80 per cent and for the 16-74 population of 70 per cent by 2031

• Over 40 per cent of adults qualified to at least level 4, 68 per cent of adults qualified to at least level 3 and over 90 per cent of adults qualified to at least level 2 by 2020 and maintained to 2031

• A rise in lower-quartile earnings to 60 per cent of average earnings by 2031

• End-user CO2 emissions in 2031 that are 60 per cent below 1990 levels

• Per capita consumption of water by households in 2030 that is 20 per cent below 2008 levels, or 120 litres/head/day

Core indicators – • GVA per capita and GVA per

worker • Employment rates: 6-74 year

olds, working-age population. • Percentage of adults qualified

to at least level 4, at least level 3 and at least level 2

• Residence-based average earnings and lower quartile earnings

• End-user CO2 emissions (disaggregated by sector)

• Per capita consumption of water within: metered and unmetered households,

Consider the strategy when developing the Plan

Take account of the ambitions and indicators when developing the SA Framework

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existing and new build housing.

Bedfordshire and Luton Joint Economic Development Strategy (2008) – Local Level Strategy aims for: - • quality economic growth • delivering at least 50,000 additional jobs from 2001 to 2021 with

a high skills, high value bias • reduced carbon emissions and increased environmental

efficiency • in which more of those of working age are participating.

Job Target: Annual increase in jobs of 2,500 per year (employee jobs) Land Target: Additional 10 ha per year (B1 to B8 uses) Business Floorspace Target: Additional 50,000 m2 per year (VOA industrial and commercial) Inward Investment Target: 1,000 jobs per year (B1 to B8 uses and other uses not delivering local services) GVA per Job Target: 10% above region by 2013 Income per Job Target: 5% above region by 2013 Employment Rate: At least the regional rate by 2013 CO2 Emissions per Capita Target 11% reduction by 2011 and reduction at the nationally targeted rate thereafter


Take account of the targets when developing the SA Framework

Bedford Local Economic Assessment (November 2010) – Local Level Core objectives - to: • Provide a sound understanding of the economic conditions in

the area and how they affect residents and businesses; • Identify the comparative strengths and weaknesses of the local

economy and the nature of challenges and opportunities;

The assessment does not contain targets or indicators.

Consider the assessment when developing the Plan

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• Identify the local economic geography, including the economic linkages between the area and the wider economy; and

• Identify the local constraints to economic growth and employment, and the risks and opportunities from sustainable economic growth.

Bedford Town Centre Area Action Plan (October 2008) – Local Level A more commercially active and competitive retail centre and a more structured and distinctive centre • To provide a framework for the regeneration of the town centre. • To sustain and enhance the vitality and viability of the town centre as a whole whilst promoting reinvestment in the existing retail centre including the High Street. • To create a more diverse and vital mix of uses including a major increase in the town’s retail offer. • To achieve the successful integration of new development with the existing town centre. • To strengthen the economy of the town centre and its role as an employment, administrative and educational centre. A better connected centre • To improve access to the town centre through the provision of new public transport interchanges, new highway infrastructure, public transport priority when feasible, the use of park and ride facilities and improved facilities for pedestrians, cyclists, taxis and private hire vehicles. Where and when highway capacity can be increased, priority should be given to modes other than private cars. • To improve the number and quality of the connections within the town centre, and between the centre and the river and railway station. A more attractive and liveable centre

Indicators and targets are given in Appendix D table 6.

Ensure the Plans are consistent

Take account of the objectives, targets and indicators when developing the SA Framework

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• To achieve a significant growth in town centre living in order to enhance the vitality and viability of the town centre. • To provide affordable housing in a managed town centre reflecting the needs of the community with the aim of securing a mixed and balanced town centre community. • To protect, promote and enhance Bedford’s natural and built heritage, cultural attractions and role as a tourist destination as an integral part of the strategy to regenerate the town centre. • To achieve high quality urban design with high quality materials and finishes A well managed town centre • To create a town centre which is safe, attractive and in which people want to live, shop, work and spend their leisure time. • To achieve high quality public realm improvements including provision for management and maintenance. • To ensure that new development and other partner agencies contribute to the delivery of the council’s strategy for the town centre as a whole, including the provision of infrastructure. Shaping Bedford Borough’s Economy – Economic Development Strategy 2011-2014 – Local Level Strategic objectives - • Increase the Borough’s profile and image by marketing it as a prime location and investment opportunity. • Support business by encouraging high value added inward investment, the retention and development of local businesses and the establishment of new enterprises. • Improve the town centre by delivering new investment and maximising its townscape and heritage quality. • Increase economic participation and develop a quality and competitive workforce through education, skills development and removing barriers to employment.

Local ‘economic snapshot’ indicators • Resident and business perception of location. • Net job growth. • Key sector growth. • Employment land developed. • Planning applications received and approved. • Housing completions. • Business and industry CO2


Take account of the indicators when developing the SA Framework

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• Improve infrastructure in order to foster enterprise, encourage investment and sustain economic growth.

emissions per capita. • Sites and premises enquiries received and satisfied. • Journey time indicator in peak hour (congestion management). • Retail vacancy rate. • Town Centre footfall. • Tourist Information Centre visitor numbers. • 16-19 year olds Not in Education, Employment or Training (NEET). • Apprenticeship performance. • Local area deprivation.

ENERGY National Policy Statements for Energy EN-1 – EN-6 (2011) – National Level Sets out the need for all types of new energy infrastructure and gives guidance on how to assess the impacts of energy infrastructure development.


Take account of the guidance when developing the Plan

Take account of the guidance when developing the SA Framework

PPS22 Renewable Energy (August 2004) – National Level • Renewable energy developments should be capable of being

accommodated throughout England in locations where the technology is viable and environmental, economic, and social impacts can be addressed satisfactorily;

• local development documents should contain policies designed to promote and encourage, rather than restrict, the development of renewable energy resources; and recognise the full range of renewable energy resources, their differing characteristics and locational requirements

• 10% of UK electricity from renewable energy sources by 2010 and 20% by 2020

• Cut CO2 emissions by 60% by 2050

• PPS22 also sets out that local planning authorities may include policies in local development documents that

Take account of the guidance in the PPS when developing the Plan

Take account of the objectives and targets and when developing the SA Framework

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• At the local level, planning authorities should set out the criteria that will be applied in assessing applications for planning permission for renewable energy projects;

• the wider environmental and economic benefits of all proposals for renewable energy projects, whatever their scale, are material considerations that should be given significant weight in determining whether proposals should be granted planning permission;

• local planning authorities should not make assumptions about the technical and commercial feasibility of renewable energy projects (e.g. identifying generalised locations for development based on mean wind speeds);

• small-scale projects can provide a limited but valuable contribution to overall outputs of renewable energy and to meeting energy needs both locally and nationally.

• community involvement in renewable energy projects should be fostered and LPAs should seek to promote knowledge of and greater acceptance by the public of prospective renewable energy developments that are appropriately located; and

• development proposals should demonstrate any environmental, economic and social benefits as well as how any environmental and social impacts have been minimised through careful consideration of location, scale, design and other measures.

require a percentage of the energy to be used in new residential, commercial or industrial developments to come from on-site renewable energy developments.

HOUSING PPS3 Housing (June 2010) – National Level Strategic objectives: • To achieve a wide choice of high quality homes, both affordable

and market housing, to address the requirements of the community.

• To widen opportunities for home ownership and ensure high

• Minimum site size threshold for affordable housing is 15 dwellings (however local standards can be lower)

• 60% of new housing should

Ensure the Plan takes account of the targets and objectives of the PPS

Take account of the objectives and targets when developing the SA Framework

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quality housing for those who cannot afford market housing, in particular those who are vulnerable or in need.

• To improve affordability across the housing market, including by increasing the supply of housing.

• To create sustainable, inclusive, mixed communities in all areas, both urban and rural.

The specific outcomes that the planning system should deliver are: • High quality housing that is well-designed and built to a high

standard. • A mix of housing, both market and affordable, particularly in

terms of tenure and price, to support a wide variety of households in all areas, both urban and rural.

• A sufficient quantity of housing taking into account need and demand and seeking to improve choice.

• Housing developments in suitable locations, which offer a good range of community facilities and with good access to jobs, key services and infrastructure.

• A flexible, responsive supply of land – managed in a way that makes efficient and effective use of land, including re-use of previously-developed land, where appropriate.

be on previously developed land

Delivering Affordable Housing (November 2006) – National Level • providing quality homes in mixed sustainable communities for

those in need • widen the opportunities for home ownership • offering greater quality, flexibility and choice to those who rent


Take account of the guidance when producing the Plan


Planning for Travelling Showpeople Circular 04/2007 – National Level • to increase the number of travelling showpeople’s sites in

suitable locations with planning permission in order to address current under-provision over the next 3 – 5 years, and to maintain an appropriate level of site provision through RSSs


Take account of the guidance when producing the Plan


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and LDFs: • to recognise, protect and facilitate the traditional way of life of

travelling showpeople, creating sustainable, respectful and inclusive communities where travelling showpeople have fair access to suitable accommodation and services;

• to underline the importance of assessing needs at regional and sub-regional level and for local authorities to develop strategies to ensure that needs are dealt with fairly and effectively;

• to ensure that DPDs include fair and achievable policies and to ensure that identified need is dealt with fairly and effectively;

• to identify and make provision for the resultant land and accommodation requirements;

• to help to avoid travelling showpeople becoming homeless through eviction from unauthorised sites without an alternative to move to.

Regional Housing Strategy 2005-10 (May 2005) – Regional Level Three key objectives: 1. delivering more, sustainable housing provision, 2. in high quality homes and environments, 3. creating inclusive communities. Contributing aims: • to use housing investment to support economic development • to provide a sustainable environment and attractive places to

live • to promote social inclusion within sustainable communities • to ensure that housing serves to improve the Region’s health

and well-being and reduce inequalities.

Indicators • House prices • Household incomes • Interest rates • Demographic changes Targets • 23,900 homes a year in the

region, 11,000 to be ‘affordable’ (7,200 additional need social rented, 1,320 social rented backlog, 2,400 intermediate need (low cost home ownership or sub-market renting), 760 key

Need clear expectations regarding the scale of the various types of affordable housing, related to current understanding of the relevant housing markets.

Take account of the objectives, aims, targets and indicators when developing the SA Framework

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workers) • all social housing to a Decent

Homes Standard by 2010 • 70% of private housing

occupied by vulnerable households to be Decent standard by 2010

• Reduce by half the use of temporary accommodation by 2010

Bedfordshire Sub-Regional Housing Strategy 2005-10 (2005) – Local Level 1. Affordability – maximise the output of affordable housing with

prime focus on creating and enhancing sustainable communities

2. Homelessness – reverse the increasing trend of homelessness with the prime focus towards creating and sustaining balanced communities

3. Intermediate tenures – enhance and sustain an intermediate mixed tenure supply of accommodation relevant to the sub-regional housing market

4. Diversity and community cohesion – raise awareness of services and housing options among the diverse Bedfordshire communities and respond to the housing and quality of life needs, of those communities

5. Private sector renewal – target investment to tackle high levels of unfitness and disrepair. Ensure investment is protected and develop solutions for vulnerable people, to promote tenure choice.

6. Liveability - Engage with existing and new communities to identify neighbourhood ‘success factors’, and quality of life measures establish models of good practice and secure

Projected shortfall of 225 affordable homes per annum in Bedford Borough.

The Plan should take account of the objectives and findings of the strategy.

Take account of the draft objectives when developing the SA Framework.

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funding to realise parity in liveability and quality of life for all our residents across the sub region.

Accommodation for Gypsies and Travellers and Travelling Showpeople in the East of England (July 2009) – Regional Level Sets minimum pitch provision for districts in the region. Gypsies and Travellers - 25

additional pitches in Bedford by 2011 Travelling Showpeople – 13 additional plots in Bedford area by 2011

Allocate sites for pitches in the Plan

Housing Strategy 2012-17 (2012) – Local Level • Gather and evaluate evidence about housing needs within the

Borough including housing conditions and the needs of different age cohorts, vulnerable groups, household types, rural and urban households, black and minority ethnic households, both now and in the future.

• Develop a robust approach to allocations and tenancies that meets the needs and priorities of the borough and maximises the use of available resources.

• Work to deliver a range of housing that offers quality and choice and in particular to deliver additional affordable housing that meets identified needs within sustainable communities including working to deliver affordable housing through the planning system.

• Work collaboratively with developers, RSLs, funding agencies and other partners to bring forward the development of strategic sites.

• Ensure that the Borough responds to changes to the funding of affordable housing, maximises access to available funding and uses resources effectively.

• Encourage rural communities to identify housing needs and

Key actions are identified. Take account of objectives and key actions when developing the Plan


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work with them to deliver local needs housing. • Work with partners to improve the fabric of the existing stock in

particular to improve energy efficiency reducing the carbon footprint of the existing stock, increasing adaptability to climate change and reducing fuel poverty.

• Target long term empty homes and bring these back into beneficial use.

• Prevent homelessness through the provision of housing advice and through identifying housing options for persons at risk of homelessness.

• Plan for the implications of an aging population including supporting people in their existing homes and providing specialist accommodation.

• Support the adaptation of existing homes and the provision of new homes that are accessible to people with different abilities.

Empty Homes Strategy 2007-10 (June 2007) – Local Level Key objectives: • reduce the number of empty homes • raise awareness of empty property as a wasted resource • improve the supply of decent affordable private sector rented

homes available to people in housing need

Reduction in long term empty homes

Take account of the strategy when developing the Plan


Bedford Borough Homelessness Strategy 2007-10 (February 2007) – Local Level 1. Prevent homelessness 2. Work effectively with all agencies to deliver solutions to housing problems 3. Maximise available accommodation and support in all sectors 4. Improve information about homelessness and housing options 5. Reduce rough sleeping 6. Improve services to homeless people

Various best value indicators. Targets: • Reduce use of temporary

accommodation by 50% nationally by 2010

• Maintain no families in bed & breakfast

• Reduction in use of

The plan should take account of the objectives and findings of the strategy.


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temporary accommodation • Reduce rough sleeping • Provide up to 10 additional

pitches for Gypsy & Traveller households

• Reduction in statutory homeless applications

Bedfordshire and Luton Strategic Housing Market Assessment (March 2010) – Local Level Provides insight into the local housing market, forecasting needs and demands for housing of different types.

35% of new housing should be affordable– comprised of 20% social rented housing; 15% intermediate affordable housing.

Take account of information in assessment

None

POPULATION AND HUMAN HEALTH PPG17 Planning for open space, sport and recreation (July 2002) – National Level • Supporting an urban renaissance - local networks of high

quality and well managed and maintained open spaces, sports and recreational facilities help create urban environments that are attractive, clean and safe. Green spaces in urban areas perform vital functions as areas for nature conservation and biodiversity and by acting as 'green lungs' can assist in meeting objectives to improve air quality.

• Supporting a rural renewal - the countryside can provide opportunities for recreation and visitors can play an important role in the regeneration of the economies of rural areas. Open spaces within rural settlements and accessibility to local sports and recreational facilities contribute to the quality of life and well being of people who live in rural areas.

• Promotion of social inclusion and community cohesion - well planned and maintained open spaces and good quality sports and recreational facilities can play a major part in improving

Open space, sports and recreation standards should be set locally

• Take account of the PPG when developing the Plan

• Consider whether the Plan should set open space standards


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people's sense of well being in the place they live. As a focal point for community activities, they can bring together members of deprived communities and provide opportunities for people for social interaction.

• Health and well being - open spaces, sports and recreational facilities have a vital role to play in promoting healthy living and preventing illness, and in the social development of children of all ages through play, sporting activities and interaction with others.

• Promoting more sustainable development - by ensuring that open space, sports and recreational facilities (particularly in urban areas) are easily accessible by walking and cycling and that more heavily used or intensive sports and recreational facilities are planned for locations well served by public transport.

PPS23 Planning and Pollution Control (2004) – National Level In considering proposals for development, LPAs should take account of the risks of and from pollution and land contamination, and how these can be managed or reduced. The following are particularly relevant to the consideration of planning and pollution control: – putting people at the centre; – taking a long-term perspective; – taking account of costs and benefits; – respecting environmental limits; – applying the precautionary principle; – using scientific knowledge; – following procedures which are based on transparency, access to information, effective participation by stakeholders and access to justice; and – making the polluter pay.

The document contains no targets or indicators.

Matters to be considered when writing policy are listed in Appendix A of the PPS


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The Government’s objectives for contaminated land are set out in DETR Circular 02/2000, Contaminated Land. These are: – to identify and remove unacceptable risks to human health and the environment; – to seek to bring damaged land back into beneficial use; and – to seek to ensure that the cost burdens faced by individuals, companies and society as a whole are proportionate, manageable and economically sustainable. PPG24 Planning and Noise (September 1994) – National Level • where practicable, noise sensitive developments are separated

from major sources of noise (such as road, rail and air transport and certain types of industrial development)

• new development involving noisy activities should, if possible, be sited away from noise-sensitive land uses.

• Where it is not possible to achieve such a separation of land uses, local planning authorities should consider whether it is practicable to control or reduce noise levels, or to mitigate the impact of noise, through the use of conditions or planning obligations.

The document contains no targets or indicators.

Take account of the PPG when developing the Plan


Healthy Futures: Regional Health Strategy 2005-10 (December 2005) – Regional Level Vision: To improve the health of the population and to reduce health inequalities in the East of England • Theme A: Health in Sustainable Communities SP1: To ensure that the social, economic and environmental foundations of healthy lifestyles are deigned creatively into new and existing communities within the East of England SP2: To provide infrastructure and sustainable support to build social capital, particularly among those communities (geographical communities, communities of interest and potentially vulnerable groups) which are experiencing poor health outcomes

The strategy states that the state of the region’s health will be monitored by Public Health Observatories on an annual basis using a common set of indicators for each Local Authority district to provide a ‘health profile’ (no indicators specified). Appendix B states key PSA


Take account of the themes and targets when developing the SA Framework

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SP3: To make it possible for communities to ‘choose health’ positively and more easily • Theme B: Health at Key Life Stages SP4: To ensure that children and young people in the East of England can get off to a healthy start in life SP5: To encourage better health for people in the East of England throughout their working lives SP6: To support people in the East of England in ‘active ageing’ and adding life to years • Theme C: Health in a Connected Region SP7: To recognise and respond to the practical implications of international gateways for health and health inequalities within the East of England SP8: To harness the East of England’s international position to encourage learning, knowledge development and R&D for health SP9: To understand and plan for the impacts of climate change and the more sustainable use of resources within the Region in terms of health and health inequalities issues

targets are: • Substantially reduce mortality

rates by 2010 (from heart disease, stroke and related diseases, from cancer, from suicide and undetermined injury)

• Reduce health inequalities by 10% by 2010 (infant mortality and life expectancy at birth)

• Reduce adult smoking rates to 21% or less by 2010

• Halting the year on year rise in obesity amongst children under 11 by 2010

• Reducing the under 18 conception rate by 50%

RURAL ISSUES PPS7 Sustainable Development in Rural Areas (August 2004) – National Level 1. To raise the quality of life and the environment in rural areas through the promotion of: • Thriving, inclusive and sustainable rural communities, ensuring

people have decent places to live by improving the quality and sustainability of local environments and neighbourhoods

• Sustainable economic growth and diversification • Good quality, sustainable development that respects and,

where possible, enhances local distinctiveness and the intrinsic qualities of the countryside

• Continued protection of the open countryside for the benefit of


Seek to take account of the objectives of the plan in developing the Plan


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all, with the highest level of protection for our most valued landscapes and environmental resources

2. To promote more sustainable patterns of development • Focusing most development in, or next to, existing towns and

villages • Preventing urban sprawl • Discouraging the development of ‘greenfield’ land, and, where

such land must be used, ensuring it is not used wastefully • Promoting a range of uses to maximise the potential benefits of

the countryside fringing urban areas • Providing appropriate leisure opportunities to enable urban and

rural dwellers to enjoy the wider countryside 3. Promoting the development of the English regions by improving their economic performance so that all are able to reach their full potential – by developing competitive, diverse and thriving rural enterprise that provides a range of jobs and underpins strong economies. 4. To promote sustainable, diverse and adaptable agriculture sectors where farming achieves high environmental standards, minimising impact on natural resources, and manages valued landscapes and biodiversity; contributes both directly and indirectly to rural economic diversity; is itself competitive and profitable; and provides high quality products that the public wants. Rural Strategy (2004) – National Level Three priorities for rural policy: 1. Economic and social regeneration – supporting enterprise across rural England, but targeting greater resources at areas of greatest need 2. Social justice for all – tackling social exclusion wherever it occurs and providing fair access to services and opportunities for all rural people


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3. Enhancing the value of our countryside – protecting the natural environment for this and future generations Economic objectives: • building on the economic success of the majority of rural areas

to ensure they contribute fully to national, regional and local economic prosperity

• tackling the structural economic weaknesses and accompanying poor social conditions that exist in a minority of rural areas

Social justice objectives: • fair access to public services and affordable housing • tackle social exclusion wherever it occurs Countryside value objectives: • Protect and enhance the rural and urban environments • Enhance the value and natural beauty of the countryside for

rural communities and for the benefit of society in general. SOCIAL INCLUSIVENESS Safer Places: The Planning System and Crime Prevention (February 2004) – National Level Attributes relevant to crime prevention: • Access and movement – places with well-defined routes,

spaces and entrances that provide for convenient movement without compromising security

• Structure – places that are structured so that different uses do not cause conflict

• Surveillance – places where all publicly accessible spaces are overlooked

• Ownership – places that promote a sense of ownership, respect, territorial responsibility and community

• Physical protection – places that include necessary, well designed security features

There are no targets or indicators in this document.

Annex 4 provides checklists to be used when considering development proposals


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• Activity – places where the level of human activity is appropriate to the locations and creates a reduced risk of crime and a sense of safety at all times

• Management and maintenance – places that are designed with management and maintenance in mind, to discourage crime in the present and in the future

Confident Communities in a Secure Britain, Home Office Strategic Plan 2004-08 (July 2004) – National Level Objectives: • People are and feel more secure in their homes and daily lives. • More offenders are caught, punished and stop offending and

victims are better supported. • Fewer people’s lives are ruined by drugs and alcohol. • Migration is managed to benefit the UK, while preventing abuse

of immigration laws and of the asylum system. • Citizens, communities and the voluntary sector are more fully

engaged in tackling social problems, and there is more equality of opportunity and respect for people of all races and religions.

Targets for 2008 are stated. PSA targets that relate to the objectives are stated on page 126.

The plan should take account of the objectives of the Home Office Plan.


Regional Social Strategy 2nd Edition (November 2007) – Regional Level Vision: To achieve social inclusion throughout the East of England Strategic objectives: • To tackle poverty and reduce income inequalities • To promote access to work, tackle low pay and improve

conditions of work • To improve the life chances of children from disadvantaged

families and support vulnerable young people in the transition to adulthood

• To improve the life chances of adults through learning and skills development

• To promote active ageing and reduce social exclusion of older people

• End child poverty by 2020 • Reduce number of lone

parents on income support • 70% employment rate for

lone parents • 95% of adults to have basic

literary skills by 2020 • 11,000 affordable homes per

annum • improved housing solutions

for gypsies and travellers • increased provision of high



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• To support the development of sustainable communities • To improve access to services, especially for disadvantaged

groups • To develop social networks, community assets and promote

community cohesion

quality accessible green space in growth areas

• reduce crime re-offending

Crime, Drugs and Anti-Social Behaviour Strategy 2005-08 – Local Level (North Beds Community Safety Partnership) Crime priorities: • criminal damage • domestic burglaries • domestic violence • drink and drug related crime • drug misuse • theft from motor vehicles Anti-social behaviour priorities: • abandoned and burnt out vehicles • dishonest traders visiting people in their homes • fly-tipping and litter • noise and disturbance in the street • underage drinking and illegal sales of alcohol • vandalism, graffiti and arson

A number of Best Value indicators are given on page 12. A target of 20% reduction in crime in the borough (monitored by British Crime Survey data) by 2007/08 is stated on page 13.


Take account of the priorities when developing the SA Framework

Social Inclusion/Anti-Poverty Strategy for Bedford Borough (August 2006) – Local Level • To ensure that barriers to accessing information, services and

facilities experienced by existing communities will continue to be identified through partnership working and we will focus our efforts on trying to overcome these barriers so that our communities enjoy a good quality life.

• To ensure that the anticipated housing growth in the borough will take place in a manner that is inclusive and accessible and will promote the development of new sustainable communities.

No specific indicators or targets are mentioned in the Strategy.



Bedfordshire Strategic Policing Plan 2012-16 – Local Level

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Aims - protection of life; protection of people from violence; protection of property; and protection of people from disorder. Priorities - • Reducing Crime We will continue the success of the last year, by focussing on repeat victims and offenders and effectively managing crime and disorder hotspots. We will also introduce a range of prevention measures. • Reducing Disorder We will work with local partners and the community to reduce persistent anti-social behaviour and safeguard vulnerable communities and residents. • Reducing Re-offending We will work with criminal justice partners to target prolific offenders and direct them away from a life of crime. • Communicating more effectively We will ensure that we listen to you in order to get our service right first time and we will keep you informed of progress. Improved call handling and risk assessment of problems will be paramount. • Value for Money We will give residents a better return for their investment in us by ensuring effective use of resource and reducing costs while still cutting crime.

Take account of the plan when developing the Plan

Take account of the plan when developing the SA Framework

TRANSPORT PPG13: Transport (January 2011) – National Level The objectives of this guidance are to integrate planning and transport at the national, regional, strategic and local level to: • promote more sustainable transport choices for both people

Annex D provides maximum car parking standards

Take account of the guidance and standards when developing the Plan

Take account of the objectives and when developing the SA

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and for moving freight; • promote accessibility to jobs, shopping, leisure facilities and

services by public transport, walking and cycling, and • reduce the need to travel, especially by car.

Framework

Local Transport Plan 2011-2021 – Local Level • To provide a reliable and efficient transport system, in order to

support a strong local economy and facilitate sustainable growth.

• To deliver improvements that encourage a reduction in transport emissions and greenhouse gases, in order to tackle climate change and develop a low carbon community capable of adapting to the impacts of climate change.

• To promote greater equality of opportunity by providing opportunities for all residents to access key services and facilities.

• To contribute to better safety, security and health by reducing death, injury or illness from transport and promoting travel modes that are beneficial to health.

• To encourage and support a sustainable transport system that contributes to a healthy natural and urban environment.

• To gain a better understanding of travel behaviour in and out of the Borough, in order to make informed decisions on how people can be encouraged to make “smarter” sustainable travel choices.

Key PI K1 Walking trips K2 Cycling trips K3 Journey time indicator in peak hour (congestion management) K4 Use of public transport bus services K5 Rail passengers K6 Reported road casualties / incidents K7 Children travelling to school by sustainable mode K8 Access for all Borough residents to key services by public transport (bus), walking and cycling Supporting PI S1 Length of cycleways S2 Number of cycle parking spaces S3 Number of Bikeability Level 2 achieved S4 Number of schools achieving BikeIt Bronze / Silver / Gold status each year S5 Number if people cycling to

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main railway station (and other key destinations) S6 Number of businesses taking up “Cycle to Work Guarantee” each year S7 Road condition (Principal) S8 Road condition (Non-principal) S9 Footway condition S10 Highway structures condition S11 Street lighting condition S12 CAT1 defects (carriageways) S13 CAT1 defects (footways) S14 Effectiveness of winter highways maintenance service S15 Parking Penalty Charge Notices cancelled S16 Quality of car parks S17 Park and Ride patronage S18 Access from new developments to key services by public transport bus, walking and cycling S19 Urban area households within 400m of a 15 minute frequency public transport bus service S20 Rural area households within 13 minutes walking distance of an hourly public transport bus service S21 Punctuality / reliability of

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public transport bus services S22 Availability of bus timetables at bus stops S23 Availability of waiting facilities at bus stops S24 Disabled accessibility at bus stops S25 Unallocated seats on mainstream school transport services S26 Urban built up area covered by 20mph zones S27 Number of residential 20mph zones around schools S28 Number of school travel plans

WASTE PPS10: Planning for Sustainable Waste Management (July 2005) – National Level • help deliver sustainable development through driving waste

management up the waste hierarchy, addressing waste as a resource and looking for disposal as the last option, but one which must be adequately catered for

• provide a framework in which communities take more responsibility for their own waste, and enable sufficient and timely provision of waste management facilities to meet the needs of their communities

• help implement the national waste strategy, and supporting targets, are consistent with obligations required under European legislation and support and complement other guidance and legal controls such as those set out in the Waste Management Licensing Regulations 2004

None Take account of the guidance and objectives in the PPS


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• help secure the recovery or disposal of waste without endangering human health and without harming the environment, and enable waste to be disposed of in one of the nearest appropriate installations

• reflect the concerns and interests of communities, the needs of waste collection authorities, waste disposal authorities and business, and encourage competitiveness

• protect green belts but recognise the particular locational needs of some types of waste management facilities when defining detailed green belt boundaries and, in determining planning applications, that these locational needs, together with the wider environmental and economic benefits of sustainable waste management, are material considerations that should be given significant weight in determining whether proposals should be given planning permission

• ensure the design and layout of new development supports sustainable waste management

Waste Strategy for England (May 2007) – National Level Key objectives: • decouple waste growth (in all sectors) from economic growth

and put more emphasis on waste prevention and re use • meet and exceed the Landfill Directive diversion targets for

biodegradable municipal waste in 2010, 2013 and 2020 • Increase diversion from landfill of non-municipal waste and

secure better integration of treatment for municipal and non-municipal waste

• Secure the investment in infrastructure needed to divert waste from landfill and for the management of hazardous waste and

• Get the most environmental benefit from that investment, through increased recycling or resources and recovery of

• Reduce household waste not re-used, recycled or composted (22.2 million tonnes in 2000) to 15.8 by 2010 and to 12.2 by 2020

• Recycling and composting of household waste 40% by 2010, 45% by 2015 and 50% by 2020

• Recovery of municipal waste 53% by 2010, 67% by 2015 and 75% by 2020

Seek to contribute to the national waste targets and objectives


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energy from residual waste using a mix of technologies Bedfordshire Minerals and Waste Local Plan: Strategic Sites and Polices (submission draft) (August 2012) – Local Level The Core Strategy is prepared jointly by Bedford Borough Council, Central Bedfordshire Council and Luton Borough Council. Objectives – • Manage as much as possible of wastes arising from within the

Plan area, and the agreed apportionment of London wastes. • Promote the reduction of waste arisings. • Move away from dependence upon landfilling. • Provide greater capacity for the recovery of materials and

energy. • Protect the biodiversity and landscape fabric of the Plan area. • Protect the safety of the road network in the Plan area. • Protect the cultural, social and environmental heritage of the

Plan area.

• Aim to end landfill of untreated waste by 2010.

• Establish sufficient infrastructure to enable self-sufficiency for treatment of waste arising in county.

• Make provision for 250,460 tonnes of recovery capacity at 2027/2028 and 7.2 m tonnes of void space for landfilling non-hazardous wastes.

The locations of waste management facilities are included in the Waste Core Strategy. The interaction of these with proposals in the Allocations and Designations Plan should be considered.

Secondary, cumulative and synergistic effects should be considered.

WATER AND SOIL PPS25: Development and Flood Risk (March 2010) – National Level The aims of planning policy on development and flood risk are to ensure that flood risk is taken into account at all stages in the planning process to avoid inappropriate development in areas at risk of flooding, and to direct development away from areas at highest risk. here new development is, exceptionally, necessary in such areas, policy aims to make it safe without increasing flood risk elsewhere and where possible, reducing flood risk overall. Regional planning bodies (RPBs) and local planning authorities (LPAs) should prepare and implement planning strategies that help to deliver sustainable development by: Appraising risk • identifying land at risk and the degree of risk of flooding from

river, sea and other sources in their areas;

Planning permissions granted contrary to the advice of the Environment Agency

Follow guidance of PPS when allocating sites

Take account of Strategic Flood Risk Assessment

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• preparing Regional Flood Risk Appraisals (RFRAs) or Strategic Flood Risk Assessments (SFRAs) as appropriate, as freestanding assessments that contribute to the Sustainability Appraisal of their plans;

Managing risk • framing policies for the location of development which avoid

flood risk to people and property where possible, and manage any residual risk, taking account of the impacts of climate change;

• only permitting development in areas of flood risk when there are no reasonably available sites in areas of lower flood risk and benefits of the development outweigh the risks from flooding;

Reducing risk • safeguarding land from development that is required for current

and future flood management eg conveyance and storage of flood water, and flood defences;

• reducing flood risk to and from new development through location, layout and design, incorporating sustainable drainage systems (SUDS);

• using opportunities offered by new development to reduce the causes and impacts of flooding eg surface water management plans; making the most of the benefits of green infrastructure for flood storage, conveyance and SUDS; re-creating functional floodplain; and setting back defences.

A partnership approach • working effectively with the Environment Agency, other

operating authorities and stakeholders to ensure that best use is made of their expertise and information so that plans are effective and decisions on planning applications can be delivered expeditiously; and

• ensuring spatial planning supports flood risk management

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policies and plans, River Basin Management Plans and emergency planning.

Water Resources for the Future, A Strategy for England and Wales, (Environment Agency, March 2001) – National Level • Water efficiency should be actively promoted • Water leakage control • Agriculture to focus on using water to best effect • Commerce and industry to pay increasing attention to water

efficiency

The document does not include any indicators or targets

Take account of the strategy when producing the Plan


Draft Great Ouse Catchment Flood Management Plan (Environment Agency, March 2010) – Regional Level • Minimise flood related risks to the population. • Minimise community disruption from flooding. • Manage flood risk to critical infrastructure. • Manage flood risk to sites of cultural heritage and landscape. • Minimise the economic impacts of flooding to properties. • Minimise the economic impacts of flooding to agriculture. • Ensure future investment in the catchment is proportional to the

risk. • Manage flood risk to habitats and species. • Protect and improve hydromorphology and geomorphology in

accordance with the objectives of the Water Framework Directive, by seeking to reduce maintenance and utilising natural methods of flood alleviation where possible.

• Protect and improve water quality in accordance with the objectives of the Water Framework Directive.

• The number of people at risk in the fluvial 1% AEP and 0.5% AEP tidal (King’s Lynn and the Fens only) floods.

• The percentage area of flooding during the 1% AEP fluvial and 0.5% AEP tidal (King’s Lynn and the Fens only) flood events where depth exceeds one metre. Velocity of flows.

• Flood warning lead times. • Flood warning coverage. • The number of properties at

risk during the 1% AEP fluvial and 0.5% AEP tidal (King’s Lynn and the Fens only) flood.

• The duration of flooding (<1 day, 1 day to 5 days, > 5 days).

Take account of the management plan when producing the Plan


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• The number of community infrastructure at risk during the 1% AEP fluvial and 0.5% AEP tidal (King’s Lynn and the Fens only) flood.

• The number of people at risk with a high or very high social flood vulnerability index (SFVI) during the 1% AEP fluvial and 0.5% AEP tidal (King’s Lynn and the Fens only) flood events.

• Scale of disruption. • The number of critical

infrastructure at risk during the 1% AEP fluvial and 0.5% AEP tidal (King’s Lynn and the Fens only) flood events.

• The length of motorway, A road and railway at risk where depths exceed 0.2m during the 1% AEP fluvial and 0.5% AEP tidal (King’s Lynn and the Fens only) flood events.

• The number of scheduled ancient monuments at risk during the 1% AEP fluvial and 0.5% AEP tidal (King’s Lynn and the Fens only) flood events.

• The percentage area of

89





AONBs at risk. • The total economic damages

to properties during the 1% AEP fluvial and 0.5% AEP tidal (King’s Lynn and the Fens only) flood events.

• The estimated damage to agriculture.

• Proportion Grade 1, 2, 3 and 4 agricultural land at risk during the 1% AEP fluvial and 0.5% AEP tidal (King’s Lynn and the Fens only) flood events.

• Expenditure on flood risk management activities.

• Benefits to people and property compared to the undefended situation.

• The number Ramsar, SACs, SPAs, SSSIs at risk during the 1% AEP fluvial and 0.5% AEP tidal (King’s Lynn and the Fens only) flood events.

• Proportion of Ramsar, SAC, SPA, SSSI at risk.

• Number of impoundments and control structures.

• Proportion of channel and bank side that is physically modified.

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• Length of channel subject to physical or hydraulic intervention as part of operations / maintenance regime.

• Area of land affected by flooding where diffuse pollution is a pressure.

• Number of sites that are vulnerable to flooding and could cause pollution.

River Great Ouse Waterway Plan (Environment Agency, January 2006) – Local Level • Improve and promote access and information for all users (on

water and land) • Improve and maintain the river infrastructure and facilities and

services for all users • Contribute to enhanced biodiversity, heritage and landscape

value in the waterway corridor • Increase use of the river and its corridor

• Numbers and mix of people using the river

• User satisfaction • Achieving waterway

standards • Enhanced biodiversity,

heritage and landscape value

Take account of the plan when considering the areas of and near the River Great Ouse


The Surface Waters Plan – Plan for strategic management of surface waters and their local environment in the Forest of Marston Vale (June 2002) – Local Level Purpose of the Plan includes (paragraph 1.7): • Publicise and promote the policies of the Surface Waters Group • Identify positive solutions for dealing with the potentially

adverse impact of development pressure on the watercourses and other open water bodies in the Marston Vale

• Encourage schemes that result in a range of benefits, having regard to the variety of functions of the surface waters including discharge of surface water run off, flood risk management, and

There are no targets or indicators stated in the document.

The Plan sets out potential sites for Strategic Water Facilities in Appendix G.

The stated purpose of the plan should be considered developing the SA Framework.

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environmental and recreational asset • Support adopted and emerging local plan policies dealing with

flooding and surface water drainage and to assist with the consideration of development proposals

• Provide guidance to landowners and developers on approaches to surface water management that the members of the Surface Waters Group would be likely to support

Upper Ouse and Bedford Ouse Catchment Area Management Strategy (March 2005) – Local Level Vision – to ensure that water resources are managed sustainably for the future, with due regard for environmental, abstractors and other water users needs.

There are no relevant key targets or indicators.

The strategy sets out how much water is available in the catchment and the Environment Agency’s abstraction licensing strategy for managing water resources until 2009. At the end of this period the strategy will be reviewed following a reassessment of water resource availability.

Bedford Borough and Mid Bedfordshire District Outline Water Cycle Strategy (May 2009) – Local Level Identifies the strategic water services infrastructure improvements required to meet future development.

There are no relevant key targets or indicators.

Take account of the plan when considering land requirements.

Upper River Great Ouse Preliminary Flood Risk Assessment (June 2011) – Local Level Collates information on past (historic) and future (potential) floods, to identify Flood Risk Areas and enable the preparation of Flood Risk Management Plans where required for Bedford Borough, Central Bedfordshire and Milton Keynes Councils.

There are no targets or indicators.

92

Appendix 3 Baseline information Indicator Local data Comparator data Trend Expected

trend if no plan

Comment (issue/constraint)

Data source

SOCIAL INDICATORS Population 157,800 people

65,500 households (March 2012)

2001 148,100 people 59,500 households

increasing population continues to rise

more dwellings required

2011 mid year estimate ONS

Household size 2011 2.42 persons

2001 2.44 persons

decreasing continued decrease

more dwellings required

2011 Census ONS

Distribution of population

2011 64.2% within Bedford/Kempston urban area

1991 67% within Bedford/Kempston urban area 2001 64.2% within Bedford/Kempston urban area

population dispersal from urban area halted by planning policy

continued dispersion

pressure to build in rural area

2011 Census ONS

Social deprivation 2010 Index of Multiple Deprivation – ranked 153 out of 326 LAs in England (1 is most deprived)

2007 Index of Multiple Deprivation – ranked 183 out of 354 LAs in England (1 is most deprived) 2004 Index of Multiple Deprivation – ranked 167 out of 354

deprivation decreasing

Indices of Deprivation DCLG

Local deprivation levels 2010 Index of Multiple 2007 Index of Multiple the most deprived Indices of

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Indicator Local data Comparator data Trend Expected trend if no plan


Data source

Deprivation – lower super output area rank out of 32,482 areas in England (1 is most deprived) Castle 1445 Harpur 1447 Cauldwell 1971

Deprivation – lower super output area rank out of 32,482 areas in England (1 is most deprived) Castle 1618 Harpur 2205 Cauldwell 2593

areas are in the centre and south of the town

Deprivation DCLG

House prices November 2012 average prices Bedford borough £153,100

November 2010 average prices Bedford borough £156,563 East of England £175,469 England & Wales £164,773 June 2007 Bedford borough £204,212 East of England £189,269 England and Wales £180,399

prices have decreased since 2007 Bedford prices are now lower than regional and national average but previously were higher

Land Registry

Average weekly earnings (median)

2012 Bedford borough £517.4

2012 East of England £531.0 UK £508.0 2010 Bedford £495.2 East of England

earnings have increased Bedford residents earnings are lower than regional average but higher than national average

NOMIS ONS

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Data source

£523.3 UK £501.8 2005 Bedford £435.9 East of England £456.7 UK £432.8

Housing affordability (ratio of median house price to median annual earnings)

2012 7.49

2010 Bedford 6.1 East of England 6.5 2009 Bedford 6.91 East of England 6.80 2005 Bedford 7.03 East of England 7.48 2001 Bedford 4.75 East of England 4.75

housing is becoming more affordable Bedford housing is now less affordable than for the region

DCLG

Homelessness 2010/11 212 2009/10 251 2008/09 442 2001/02 437 2004/05 302

Homelessness is falling again after previously rising

ONS

Unfit homes April 2005 2.8% of dwelling stock Unfit = 1803 (263 are RSL and 1540 are owner

April 2001 2.8% of dwelling stock Unfit = 1719 (76 are RSL and 1643 are owner occupied or

% of unfit dwellings is stableNumber of unfit dwellings are rising (both RSL

ONS

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Data source

occupied or private rented)

private rented) and private stock)

Mode of travel to work (resident population)

2011 42.5% car 3.7% work at home 7.0% on foot 3.9% car passenger 2.6% bicycle 2.8% bus 3.2% train 0.3% motorcycle

2001 - Bedford 39.8% car 6.2% work at home 6.4% on foot 3.9% car passenger 3.0% bicycle 2.9% bus 2.6% train 0.5% motorcycle East of England 39.1% car 6.3% work at home 6.0% on foot 4.0 % train 3.9% car passenger 2.6% bicycle 2.6% bus 0.7% motorcycle

majority of people travel to work by car and higher than average travel on foot, by bicycle or bus

2011 Census ONS

Ethnic origin 2011 White British 71.5% White Irish/other 9.1% Asian/Asian British Indian 5.2% Asian/Asian British Pakistani 2.1% Asian/Asian British Bangladeshi 2.0% Black/black British Caribbean 1.8%

2001 White British 80.77% White Irish/other 6.21% Asian/Asian British Indian 4.28% Asian/Asian British Pakistani 1.59% Asian/Asian British Bangladeshi 1.37% Black/black British Caribbean 1.87%

higher % people of Asian/Asian British (Indian, Pakistani, Bangladeshi) and Black/black British Caribbean origin compared to regional average

2011 Census ONS

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Data source

East of England 2011 White British 85.3% White Irish/other 5.9% Asian/Asian British Indian 1.5% Asian/Asian British Pakistani 1.1% Asian/Asian British Bangladeshi 0.6% Black/black British Caribbean 0.6%

Crime rates 2011/12 offences per 1000 population Bedford - 36 England and Wales - 38

2010/11 offences per 1000 population Bedford - 42 England and Wales - 41 2009/10 offences per 1000 population Bedford - 45 England and Wales - 45 2006/07 offences per 1000 population Bedford - 57 England and Wales - 61

declining recorded crime rates are lower than for England and Wales

Home Office

Life expectancy at birth 2008-2010 males 78.9 years females 82.6 years

2008-2010 East of England – M 79.6, F 83.2 England – M 78.6, F 82.6

increasing males and females higher than England average, lower than regional

ONS

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Data source

Jan 2006-Dec 2008 Bedford – M 78.6, F 82.1 East of England – M 78.9, F 82.8 England – M 77.9, F 82.0 Jan 2003-Dec 2005 Bedford – M 77.7, F 81.3 East of England – M 78.0, F 81.9 England – M 76.9, F 81.1

People with limiting long term illness

15.59% of people East of England 16.21% of people England 17.93% of people

lower rate of limiting long term illness than the regional and national average

2001 Census ONS

ENVIRONMENTAL INDICATORS Agricultural land quality (hectares)

Grade 1 1,156 (2.4%) Grade 2 22,937 (48.1%) Grade 3 17,513 (36.8%) Grade 4 274 (0.6%) Grade 5 0 Non agricultural 3,211 (6.7%) Urban 2,550 (5.4%)

Bedfordshire Grade 1 3.3% Grade 2 33.7% Grade 3 46.5% Grade 4 3.1% Grade 5 0 Non agricultural 8.7% Urban 4.7%

Borough has less grade 1 and more grade 2 than the county overall

DEFRA

Gas consumption 2011 - domestic sales – 798 GWh

2009 - domestic sales – 851 GWh

decreasing DECC

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Data source

no consumers – 56,200 commercial / industrial sales – 319 GWh no consumers – 800 total sales – 1,117,400 GWh total consumers – 57,000 domestic sales per consumer – 14,203 KWh commercial / industrial sales per consumer – 421,227 KWh

no consumers – 55,300 commercial / industrial sales – 328 GWh no consumers – 800 total sales – 1,179,500 GWh total consumers – 56,000 domestic sales per consumer – 15,393 KWh commercial / industrial sales per consumer – 432,023 KWh 2005 - domestic sales – 980 GWh no consumers – 52,500 commercial / industrial sales – 376 GWh no consumers – 1,000 total sales – 1,356,000 GWh total consumers – 53,500 domestic sales per consumer –

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Data source

18,670 KWh commercial / industrial sales per consumer – 364,880 KWh

Electricity consumption 2011 - domestic sales – 282 GWh no MPANs – 67,800 commercial / industrial sales – 389 GWh no MPANs – 5,500 total sales – 672 GWh total MPANs – 73,300 domestic sales per consumer – 4,168 commercial / industrial sales per consumer – 70,017

2009 - domestic sales – 282GWh no MPANs – 66,100 commercial / industrial sales – 409 GWh no MPANs – 5,300 total sales – 691 GWh total MPANs – 71,400 domestic sales per consumer – 4,272 commercial / industrial sales per consumer – 76,865 2005 - domestic sales – 303GWh no MPANs – 64,700 commercial / industrial sales – 450 GWh no MPANs – 5,700 total sales – 753 GWh total MPANs – 70,400

decreasing DECC

100



Data source

domestic sales per consumer – 4,682 commercial / industrial sales per consumer – 79,417

Transport energy consumption

2010 (tonnes of fuel) Personal – 50,600 Freight – 25,500 Total – 76,100

2008 (tonnes of fuel) Personal – 52,300 Freight – 25,400 Total – 77,600 2005 (tonnes of fuel) Personal – 53,900 Freight – 23,200 Total – 77,100

variable DECC

Carbon dioxide emissions (tonnes per capita)

2010 Bedford – Industry/commercial – 2.2 Domestic – 2.1 Transport – 1.7 Total – 5.9

2008 Bedford – Industry/commercial – 2.5 Domestic – 2.2 Transport – 1.8 Total – 6.4 2008 East of England Industry/commercial – 2.8 Domestic – 2.3 Transport – 2.4 Total – 7.6 2005 Bedford – Industry/commercial – 2.8 Domestic – 2.3

Decrease over time Bedford carbon dioxide emissions per capita lower than regional average

DECC

101



Data source

Transport – 1.8 Total – 7.0

Water consumption Domestic consumption 2010 Unmetered - 178.63 Metered - 129.53 Total – 308.16 Non-household consumption 2010 Unmetered – 617.97 Metered – 2507.82 Total – 3125.79 Note that all figures are for the Ruthamford water resource zone which includes Bedford.

Domestic consumption 2006 Unmetered - 155.81 Metered - 126.48 Total – 282.29 Non-household consumption 2006 Unmetered – 175.44 Metered – 2708.92 Total – 2884.36 Domestic consumption 2008 (litres per person per day average) Unmetered -161.28 Metered - 143.97 Total – 305.25 Non-household consumption 2008 (litres per property per day average) Unmetered – 554.59 Metered – 2815.12 Total – 3369.71

Increasing (although there has been a decrease in metered water consumption since 2008)

continued increase

need to minimise water consumption

Anglian Water

Recycling of household waste

2011/12 – 38.2%

2002/03 – 7.81% 2003/04 – 11.44%

increasing BBC

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Data source

2004/05 – 17.52% 2005/6 – 25% 2006/7 – 27.23% 2007/8 – 30.85% 2009/10 – 38.3% 2010/11 – 39.1%

Annual average concentration of nitrogen dioxide (ug/m3)

High St – Collins Jewellers (site 30) 2011 – 52 Prebend St (site 20) 2011 – 62 National target – nitrogen dioxide 40μg.m3 (annual mean)

High St – Collins jewellers (site 30) 2004 – 60.1, 2005 – 53.2, 2006 – 49.7, 2007 – 45.9, 2008 – 49, 2009 - 50, 2010 - 46 Prebend St (site 20) 2004 – 50.3, 2005 – 57.3, 2006 – 58.9, 2007 – 54.8, 2008 – 57, 2009 – 59, 2010 – 54

national target exceeded

AQMA designated for Bedford town centre in 2009

BBC

River quality - chemistry 2009 Octagon Farm B Elstow Brook B Ouse The Spinney B Ouse Bromham Mill B Ouse New Cut B

2004-06 Octagon Farm B Elstow Brook B Ouse The Spinney A Ouse Bromham Mill A Ouse New Cut A

decline A is very good B is good

Environment Agency

River quality - biology 2009 Octagon Farm - Elstow Brook - Ouse The Spinney – Ouse Bromham Mill A Ouse New Cut A

Octagon Farm A (2006) Elstow Brook C (2004) Ouse The Spinney B (2004) Ouse Bromham Mill B

improvement A is very good B is good C is fairly good

Environment Agency

103



Data source

(2002) Ouse New Cut B (2005)

River quality - nitrates 2009 Octagon Farm 4 Elstow Brook 4 Ouse The Spinney 4 Ouse Bromham Mill 4 Ouse New Cut 4

2004-06 Octagon Farm 4 Elstow Brook 3 Ouse The Spinney 5 Ouse Bromham Mill 5 Ouse New Cut 5

improvement 3 moderately low presence 4 moderate presence 5 high presence

Environment Agency

River quality - phosphates

2009 Octagon Farm 4 Elstow Brook 4 Ouse The Spinney 5 Ouse Bromham Mill 5 Ouse New Cut 5

2004-06 Octagon Farm 4 Elstow Brook 5 Ouse The Spinney 5 Ouse Bromham Mill 5 Ouse New Cut 5

improvement 4 high presence 5 very high presence

Environment Agency

Designated wildlife sites SSSI 2012 166.73 hectares 30.9% in favourable condition LNR 2010 114.6 hectares

SSSI in favourable condition 2010 - 29.4% 2007 - 72.6% 2005 - 74% LNR 2008 – 55.2 ha 2004 – 54.8 ha

SSSI condition decline LNR area increase

SSSI decline due to recent resurvey of one site

Natural England

Built heritage features listed buildings – over 1,200 SAMs – 71 conservation areas – 26

English Heritage

ECONOMIC INDICATORS Industry of employment Bedford - 2011 Bedford - 2001 compared to the 2011 Census

104



Data source

Agriculture, hunting, forestry - 0.7% Mining and quarrying - 0.1% Manufacturing - 8.5% Electricity, gas and water supply - 1.5% Construction - 7.5% Wholesale and retail trade, repairs of motor vehicles - 17.1% Hotels and catering – 4.5% Transport storage and communication - 5.7% Financial intermediation - 2.7% Real estate renting and business - 16.7% Public admin and defence - 6.5% Education - 11.6% Health and social work - 12.4% Other - 4.5%

Agriculture, hunting, forestry - 1.33% Mining and quarrying - 0.37% Manufacturing - 13.99% Electricity, gas and water supply - 1.17% Construction - 6.6% Wholesale and retail trade, repairs of motor vehicles - 17.05% Hotels and catering - 3.63% Transport storage and communication - 7.27% Financial intermediation - 3.01% Real estate renting and business - 15.52% Public admin and defence - 5.68% Education - 9.22% Health and social work - 10.27% Other - 4.88% East of England - 2001

region, a greater proportion work in education, real estate renting and business activities; fewer people work in financial intermediation and construction.

ONS

105



Data source

Agriculture, hunting, forestry - 1.90% Mining and quarrying - 0.21% Manufacturing - 14.47% Electricity, gas and water supply - 0.63% Construction - 7.62% Wholesale and retail trade, repair of motor vehicles - 17.29% Hotels and catering - 4.16% Transport storage and communication - 7.41% Financial intermediation - 5.81% Real estate renting and business - 13.31% Public admin and defence - 5.16% Education - 7.34% Health and social work - 9.68% Other - 4.99%

Occupation groups Bedford - 2011 Managers, senior officials - 10.9%

Bedford - 2001 Managers, senior officials - 15.99%

compared to the region, there are fewer skilled trades

2011 Census ONS

106



Data source

Professional occupations - 18.1% Associate professional and technical - 12.3% Admin and secretarial - 11.2% Skilled trades - 11.0% Personal service - 9.3% Sales and customer service - 7.9% Process plant and machine operatives - 6.9% Elementary occupations - 12.4%

Professional occupations - 12.94% Associate professional and technical - 13.51% Admin and secretarial - 13.23% Skilled trades - 10.89% Personal service - 6.48% Sales and customer service - 7.88% Process plant and machine operatives - 7.86% Elementary occupations - 11.21% East of England - 2001 Managers senior officials - 16.25% Professional occupations - 10.82% Associate professional and technical - 13.55% Admin and secretarial - 13.69% Skilled trades - 12.06%

but more professional occupations

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Data source

Personal service - 6.72% Sales and customer service - 7.29% Process plant and machine operatives - 8.12% Elementary occupations - 11.50%

Economically active July 11 – June 12 91,000 (82.3% of working age people)

July 10 – June 11 87,500 (81.8%) July 09 – June 10 82,800 (78.2%) July 08 – June 09 83,200 (79.8%) July 07 – June 08 77,800 (76.1%) July 06 – June 07 83,100 (81.5%) July 05 – June 06 82,800 (81.9%)

% of working age people who are employed is increasing

NOMIS ONS

VAT based local units March 2007 5,455 Urban 3,430 (62.9%) Rural 2,025 (37.2%)

March 2005 5,280 Urban 3,380 (64.0%) Rural 1,900 (36.0%)

local businesses increasing overall especially in rural areas

ONS

Economically inactive Oct 11 – Sept 12 18.5%

April 09 – March 10 20.7% April 08 – March 09 21.5% April 07 – March 08 21.3% April 06 – March 07

% of people economically inactive is falling

ONS

108



Data source

20.5% April 05 – March 06 16.6%

Unemployment November 2012 4,051 (3.9%) urban 5.0% rural 2.1%

November 2011 4,067 (3.9%) urban 5.0% rural 2.1% November 2010 3,553 (3.5%) urban 4.5% rural 1.8% November 2009 3,889 (4.0%) urban 4.9% rural 2.3% November 2008 2,521 (2.6%) urban 3.4% rural 1.5% November 2007 1,943 (2.1%) urban 2.7% rural 1.0%

unemployment is rising

In November 2012 the wards with the highest unemployment were Castle, Cauldwell, Kingsbrook, Queens Park (all over 6%)

BBC

Qualifications – NVQ level 4 and above

Jan 11-Dec 11 33,900 (32.6%)

Jan 10-Dec 10 32.7% Jan 09-Dec 09 30.6% Jan 08-Dec 08 26.3% Jan 07-Dec 07 25.9% Jan 11-Dec11 East of England 29.2% Great Britain 32.9%

improving, better than regional %

NOMIS ONS

109



Data source

Qualifications – no qualifications

Jan 11-Dec 11 9,000 (8.7%)

Jan 10-Dec 10 8.0% Jan 09-Dec 09 11.6% Jan 08-Dec 08 11.8% Jan 07-Dec 07 11.8% Jan 11-Dec 11 East of England 9.6% Great Britain 10.6%

improving, better than both regional and national %

NOMIS ONS

Town centre vacancy rates

Ground floor vacant units in Primary Shopping Area 2011/12 – 10.6%

2009/10 – 10.0% 2008/9 – 10.8% 2007/8 – 7.5% 2006/7 – 5.4% 2005/6 – 5.0%

increasing BBC

Sustainability appraisal framework indicators (from Appendix 5) Indicator Local Data Comparators

and targets Trend Issue

identified Data source

Energy consumption (domestic, industry & commercial and road transport)

Gas 2011 - domestic sales – 798 GWh no consumers – 56,200 commercial / industrial sales – 319 GWh no consumers – 800 total sales – 1,117,400 GWh total consumers – 57,000

2009 - domestic sales – 851 GWh no consumers – 55,300 commercial / industrial sales – 328 GWh no consumers – 800 total sales – 1,179,500 GWh total consumers – 56,000 domestic sales per consumer – 15,393 KWh

decreasing DECC

110

Indicator Local Data Comparators and targets

Trend Issue identified

Data source

domestic sales per consumer – 14,203 KWh commercial / industrial sales per consumer – 421,227 KWh

commercial / industrial sales per consumer – 432,023 KWh 2005 - domestic sales – 980 GWh no consumers – 52,500 commercial / industrial sales – 376 GWh no consumers – 1,000 total sales – 1,356,000 GWh total consumers – 53,500 domestic sales per consumer – 18,670 KWh commercial / industrial sales per consumer – 364,880 KWh

Electricity 2011 - domestic sales – 282 GWh no MPANs – 67,800 commercial / industrial sales – 389 GWh no MPANs – 5,500 total sales – 672 GWh total MPANs – 73,300 domestic sales per consumer – 4,168commercial / industrial sales per consumer – 70,017

2009 - domestic sales – 282GWh no MPANs – 66,100 commercial / industrial sales – 409 GWh no MPANs – 5,300 total sales – 691 GWh total MPANs – 71,400 domestic sales per consumer – 4,272 commercial / industrial sales per consumer – 76,865 2005 - domestic sales – 303GWh

decreasing DECC

111



Data source

no MPANs – 64,700 commercial / industrial sales – 450 GWh no MPANs – 5,700 total sales – 753 GWh total MPANs – 70,400 domestic sales per consumer – 4,682 commercial / industrial sales per consumer – 79,417

Transport 2010 (tonnes of fuel) Personal – 50,600 Freight – 25,500 Total – 76,100


variable DECC

Renewable energy capacity installed by type

permitted 2010 – 2011 (MW) wind – 0 solar – 0 biomass – 0 Note - does not include renewable energy installations that were not the subject of a planning application, either because they were permitted development or they were required as a condition of planning permission.

permitted 2009 – 2010 (MW) wind – 0 solar – 0 biomass – 0 permitted 2008 – 2009 (MW) wind – 0.015 solar – 0 biomass – 2.65 permitted 2007 – 2008 (MW) wind – 0.008 solar – 0.006 biomass – 0

BBC

112



Data source

Proportion of energy from renewable sources

n/a UK electricity generated from renewable sources 2011 – 9.2% 2009 – 6.7% 2008 – 5.6% 2007 – 5.0% 2006 – 4.6% 2005 – 4.3%

national increase in renewable energy

DECC

Nitrogen dioxide levels in the AQMA

High St – Collins Jewellers (site 30) 2011 – 52 Prebend St (site 20) 2011 – 62 National target – nitrogen dioxide 40μg.m3 (annual mean)

High St – Collins jewellers (site 30) 2004 – 60.1, 2005 – 53.2, 2006 – 49.7, 2007 – 45.9, 2008 – 49, 2009 - 50, 2010 – 46 Prebend St (site 20) 2004 – 50.3, 2005 – 57.3, 2006 – 58.9, 2007 – 54.8, 2008 – 57, 2009 – 59, 2010 – 54

national target exceeded

high levels of nitrogen dioxide caused by high traffic volumes in town centre

BBC

Number of dwellings in the flood risk zones

A Strategic Flood Risk Assessment (Level 1 2008, Level 2 2010) has been completed for BBC which details the extent of the flood risk zones 1 (< 0.1% probability), 2 (0.1 – 1.0% probability) and 3 (> 1% probability). No data has been collected on number of dwellings in each zone, however.

BBC

Water savings through efficiency measures

Domestic consumption 2010 Unmetered - 178.63 Metered - 129.53 Total – 308.16 Non-household consumption 2010 Unmetered – 617.97

Domestic consumption 2006 Unmetered - 155.81 Metered - 126.48 Total – 282.29 Non-household consumption 2006 Unmetered – 175.44

water consumption increasing (although there has been a decrease in

need to increase water efficiency

Anglian Water

113



Data source

Metered – 2507.82 Total – 3125.79 Note that all figures are for the Ruthamford water resource zone which includes Bedford.

Metered – 2708.92 Total – 2884.36 Domestic consumption 2008 (litres per person per day average) Unmetered -161.28 Metered - 143.97 Total – 305.25 Non-household consumption 2008 (litres per property per day average) Unmetered – 554.59 Metered – 2815.12 Total – 3369.71

metered water consumption since 2008)

Water infrastructure provision

no information available

Water and river quality Drinking water quality 2010 Bedford Rural (MW23) – excellent Bedford Urban (MW25, MW26) – excellent Sandy (MW46) – excellent Woburn (MW32) – excellent River quality - chemistry 2009 Octagon Farm B Elstow Brook B Ouse The Spinney B Ouse Bromham Mill B Ouse New Cut B River quality – biology 2009

Drinking water quality 2009 Bedford Rural (MW23) – excellent Bedford Urban (MW25, MW26) – excellent Sandy (MW46) – excellent Woburn (MW32) – excellent River quality - chemistry 2004-06 Octagon Farm B Elstow Brook B Ouse The Spinney A Ouse Bromham Mill A Ouse New Cut A River quality – biology Octagon Farm A (2006)

decline improvement

Environment Agency

114



Data source

Octagon Farm - Elstow Brook - Ouse The Spinney – Ouse Bromham Mill A Ouse New Cut A River quality – nitrates 2009 Octagon Farm 4 Elstow Brook 4 Ouse The Spinney 4 Ouse Bromham Mill 4 Ouse New Cut 4 River quality – phosphates 2009 Octagon Farm 4 Elstow Brook 4 Ouse The Spinney 5 Ouse Bromham Mill 5 Ouse New Cut 5

Elstow Brook C (2004) Ouse The Spinney B (2004) Ouse Bromham Mill B (2002) Ouse New Cut B (2005) River quality – nitrates 2004-06 Octagon Farm 4 Elstow Brook 3 Ouse The Spinney 5 Ouse Bromham Mill 5 Ouse New Cut 5 River quality – phosphates 2004-06 Octagon Farm 4 Elstow Brook 5 Ouse The Spinney 5 Ouse Bromham Mill 5 Ouse New Cut 5

improvement improvement

Listed buildings, conservation area, registered parks or SAMs on the heritage at risk register

Listed buildings on the national at risk register 2012 – 1 entry (+35 on local register) Conservation areas at risk 2012 – Bedford Scheduled Monuments at risk 2012 – 15 entries

Listed buildings on the national at risk register 2011 – 1 entry (+36 on local register) 2010 – 1 entry (+39 on local register) 2009 – 1 entry 2008 – 1 entry 2007 – 1 entry 2006 – 1 entry

Decrease in local register entries

English Heritage

SSSI in favourable condition

SSSI 2012 166.73 hectares 30.9% in favourable condition

SSSI in favourable condition 2010 – 29.4% 2007 - 72.6%

SSSI condition decline

SSSI decline due to recent resurvey of one

Natural England

115



Data source

2005 - 74% site New woodland in the community forest

2011/12 - 13 ha the figures may under-report as they only include planting by the MVT

2010/11 - 13 ha 2009/10 - 15 ha 2008/09 – 14 ha 2007/08 – 33 ha 2006/07 – 19 ha 2005/06 – 25 ha

Marston Vale Trust

Green infrastructure created through the planning process


% of development on PDL

Housing and employment on PDL 2011 – 35.1%

Housing and employment on PDL 2010 – 37.2% 2009 – 74.6% 2008 – 61.3% 2007 – 60.2% 2006 – 66.3% 2005 – 54.3%

decline allocated green field sites commenced

BBC

% of municipal waste recycled

2011/12 – 38.2%

2002/03 – 7.81% 2003/04 – 11.44% 2004/05 – 17.52% 2005/6 – 25% 2006/7 – 27.23% 2007/8 – 30.85% 2009/10 – 38.3% 2010/11 – 39.1%

increasing Recycling of household waste

BBC

Water consumption Domestic consumption 2010 Unmetered - 178.63 Metered - 129.53 Total – 308.16 Non-household consumption 2010 Unmetered – 617.97 Metered – 2507.82

Domestic consumption 2006 Unmetered - 155.81 Metered - 126.48 Total – 282.29 Non-household consumption 2006 Unmetered – 175.44 Metered – 2708.92

water consumption increasing (although there has been a decrease in metered

need to increase water efficiency

Anglian Water

116



Data source

Total – 3125.79 Note that all figures are for the Ruthamford water resource zone which includes Bedford.

Total – 2884.36 Domestic consumption 2008 (litres per person per day average) Unmetered -161.28 Metered - 143.97 Total – 305.25 Non-household consumption 2008 (litres per property per day average) Unmetered – 554.59 Metered – 2815.12 Total – 3369.71

water consumption since 2008)


Gas 2011 - domestic sales – 798 GWh no consumers – 56,200 commercial / industrial sales – 319 GWh no consumers – 800 total sales – 1,117,400 GWh total consumers – 57,000 domestic sales per consumer – 14,203 KWh commercial / industrial sales per consumer – 421,227 KWh

2009 - domestic sales – 851 GWh no consumers – 55,300 commercial / industrial sales – 328 GWh no consumers – 800 total sales – 1,179,500 GWh total consumers – 56,000 domestic sales per consumer – 15,393 KWh commercial / industrial sales per consumer – 432,023 KWh 2005 - domestic sales – 980 GWh no consumers – 52,500 commercial / industrial sales –

decreasing DECC

117



Data source

376 GWh no consumers – 1,000 total sales – 1,356,000 GWh total consumers – 53,500 domestic sales per consumer – 18,670 KWh commercial / industrial sales per consumer – 364,880 KWh

Electricity 2011 - domestic sales – 282 GWh no MPANs – 67,800 commercial / industrial sales – 389 GWh no MPANs – 5,500 total sales – 672 GWh total MPANs – 73,300 domestic sales per consumer – 4,168commercial / industrial sales per consumer – 70,017

2009 - domestic sales – 282GWh no MPANs – 66,100 commercial / industrial sales – 409 GWh no MPANs – 5,300 total sales – 691 GWh total MPANs – 71,400 domestic sales per consumer – 4,272 commercial / industrial sales per consumer – 76,865 2005 - domestic sales – 303GWh no MPANs – 64,700 commercial / industrial sales – 450 GWh no MPANs – 5,700 total sales – 753 GWh total MPANs – 70,400 domestic sales per consumer – 4,682 commercial / industrial sales per

decreasing DECC

118



Data source

consumer – 79,417 Transport 2010 (tonnes of fuel) Personal – 50,600 Freight – 25,500 Total – 76,100


variable DECC

Deprivation levels by ward

2010 Index of Multiple Deprivation – lower super output area rank out of 32,482 areas in England (1 is most deprived) Castle 1445 Harpur 1447 Cauldwell 1971

2007 Index of Multiple Deprivation – lower super output area rank out of 32,482 areas in England (1 is most deprived) Castle 1618 Harpur 2205 Cauldwell 2593

Indices of Deprivation DCLG

Pitches for Travelling Showpeople

2 long-standing sites exist, at Kempston and Wyboston

demand for further sites and pitches

BBC

Housing units completed per year

20011/12 Growth Area – 874 Rural Area – 45

20010/11 Growth Area – 580 Rural Area – 54 2009/10 Growth Area – 414 Rural Area – 52 2008/09 Growth Area – 366 Rural Area – 41 2007/08 Growth Area – 552 Rural Area – 79 2006/07

BBC

119



Data source

Growth Area – 396 Rural Area – 60 2005/06 Growth Area – 285 Rural Area – 181 2004/05 Growth Area – 312 Rural Area – 324

Affordable housing provision

2011/12 342 completions

2010/11 – 274 completions 2009/10 – 253 completions 2008/09 – 190 completions 2007/08 – 215 completions 2006/07 – 94 completions 2005/06 – 76 completions 2004/05 – 114 completions

increasing BBC

Range of homes provided

2009/10 1 bedroom - 6.6% 2 bedroom - 35.7% 3 bedroom - 34.3% 4 and 4+ bedroom - 23.4%

2008/09 1 bedroom – 34.7% 2 bedroom – 42.9% 3 bedroom – 12.0% 4 and 4+ bedroom – 10.4% 2007/08 1 bedroom – 17.5% 2 bedroom - 35.4% 3 bedroom – 21.9% 4 and 4+ bedroom – 25.2% 2006/07 1 bedroom – 16.0% 2 bedroom – 36.4% 3 bedroom – 24.6% 4 and 4+ bedroom – 23.0%

increased proportion of 3 bedroom, reduced 1 bedroom

BBC

Range of recreation and leisure facilities

2009/10 informal green space - 145 ha natural green space - 507 ha

2008/09 informal green space - 145 ha natural green space - 507 ha

BBC

120



Data source

parks and gardens - 166 ha recreation grounds - 26 ha Total publicly accessible open space - 844ha

parks and gardens - 166 ha recreation grounds - 26 ha Total publicly accessible open space - 844ha

% of people travel to work by walking and cycling

People aged 16-74, 2001 Bedford walking – 9.64% cycling - 4.57%

East of England walking – 9.06% cycling –3.88% England and Wales walking – 9.99% cycling – 2.83%

2001 Census ONS

Accessibility of parks no information available Length of public footpaths


% of children who walk to school

2009/10 children aged 5-15 56.2%

2008/09 – 54.7% 2007/08 – 52.3% 2006/07 – 51.1%

increasing DfT

Services within 30 minutes public transport time (GP, hospital, schools, employment area, retail centre)

2011/12 Amount of new residential development within 30 minutes public transport time of: GP – 96% hospital – 82% lower school – 97% upper school – 86% area of employment – 89% major retail centre – 83%

2010/11 GP – 98% hospital – 93% lower school – 98% upper school – 82% area of employment – 98% major retail centre – 83% 2009/10 GP – 96% hospital – 88% lower school – 94% upper school – 78% area of employment – 73% major retail centre – 78%

BBC

121



Data source

2008/09 GP – 90% hospital – 73% lower school – 100% upper school – 78% area of employment – 77% major retail centre – 75%

Number of representations on policy documents received from ethnic minority groups

Out of 4,035 responses to the consultation on the Draft Allocations & Designations Plan in May 2010 85 respondents completed ethnicity questionnaire White English/Welsh/Scottish/North Irish/British – 77 (91%) White Irish – 1 (1%) White other – 3 (4%) Asian Pakistani – 1 (1%) Other – 1 (1%)

BBC

Number of ‘net zero carbon’ buildings

0 need to increase number

BBC

Number of jobs in the borough

2008 Full time – 48,100 Part time – 22,700

2007 Full time – 48,300 Part time – 21,200 2006 Full time – 48,400 Part time – 21,200 2005 Full time – 47,200 Part time – 23,500

NOMIS ONS

Number of jobs within the high value knowledge based industries


122



Data source

Skills and qualification levels

Qualifications – NVQ level 4 and above Jan 11-Dec 11 33,900 (32.6%)

Jan 10-Dec 10 32.7% Jan 09-Dec 09 30.6% Jan 08-Dec 08 26.3% Jan 07-Dec 07 25.9% Jan 11-Dec11 East of England 29.2% Great Britain 32.9%

improving, better than regional %

NOMIS ONS

Level of infrastructure provision

Finance received 2011/12 Highways and Public Transport - £576,428 Green Infrastructure - £590,880 Education (inc. photovoltaic project) – £1,767,194 Green Infrastructure - £590,880 Right of Way - £6,197 Community - £526,338 Staff Fees - £129,076 Total - £3,596,076

Finance received 2010/11 Highways and Public Transport - £323,451 Green Infrastructure - £225,320 Education (inc. photovoltaic project) – £2,178,257 Green Infrastructure - £225,320 Community - £57,377 Staff Fees - £109,533 Total - £2,893,938

BBC

Bus usage Number of bus journeys originating in Bedford borough – 2009/10 - 5,382,917 Mode of travel to work 2001 Bus, mini bus, coach – 4.39%

Bus companies 2001 Census ONS

Mode of travel to work Resident population 2011 42.5% car 3.7% work at home 7.0% on foot 3.9% car passenger 2.6% bicycle 2.8% bus

2001 39.8% car 6.2% work at home 6.4% on foot 3.9% car passenger 3.0% bicycle 2.9% bus

ONS

123



Data source

3.2% train 0.3% motorcycle

2.6% train 0.5% motorcycle

New residential development within 30 minutes public transport time of services

2011/12 Amount of new residential development within 30 minutes public transport time of: GP – 96% hospital – 82% lower school – 97% upper school – 86% area of employment – 89% major retail centre – 83%

2010/11 GP – 98% hospital – 93% lower school – 98% upper school – 82% area of employment – 98% major retail centre – 83% 2009/10 GP – 96% hospital – 88% lower school – 94% upper school – 78% area of employment – 73% major retail centre – 78% 2008/09 GP – 90% hospital – 73% lower school – 100% upper school – 78% area of employment – 77% major retail centre – 75%

BBC

Air quality in transport corridors

High St – Collins Jewellers (site 30) 2011 – 52 Prebend St (site 20) 2011 – 62 National target – nitrogen dioxide 40μg.m3 (annual

High St – Collins jewellers (site 30) 2004 – 60.1, 2005 – 53.2, 2006 – 49.7, 2007 – 45.9, 2008 – 49, 2009 - 50, 2010 – 46 Prebend St (site 20) 2004 – 50.3, 2005 – 57.3, 2006 – 58.9, 2007 – 54.8, 2008 – 57, 2009 –

national target exceeded in town centre

Need to reduce road traffic in town centre

BBC

124



Data source

mean) 59, 2010 – 54 Traffic congestion levels

Traffic flows at 17 cordon points around town centre – 2011 pedestrians - 5453 cyclists - 1383 motor cyclists - 273 all cars - 29156 large goods vehicles - 3179 other goods vehicles -1638 public service vehicles - 396 other buses - 197 TOTAL (incl pedestrians) - 41675

2010 pedestrians - 4299 cyclists - 962 motor cyclists - 216 all cars - 29798 large goods vehicles - 3327 other goods vehicles -1596 public service vehicles - 433 other buses - 265 TOTAL (incl pedestrians) - 40896 2009 pedestrians - 5325 cyclists - 1066 motor cyclists - 319 all cars - 31929 large goods vehicles - 2609 other goods vehicles -1662 public service vehicles - 532 other buses - 321 TOTAL (incl pedestrians) - 43763 2005 pedestrians - 4606 cyclists - 989 motor cyclists - 249 all cars - 32626 large goods vehicles - 3966 other goods vehicles - 1324 public service vehicles - 460 other buses - 227

Need to reduce congestion in town centre

BBC

125



Data source

TOTAL (incl pedestrians) - 44447 2001 pedestrians - 4772 cyclists - 1157 motor cyclists - 287 all cars - 31666 large goods vehicles - 3379 other goods vehicles - 2096 public service vehicles - 394 other buses - 360 TOTAL (incl pedestrians) - 44111

Crime rates 2009/10 offences per 1000 population Bedford - 46 Bedfordshire - 42 England and Wales - 45

2006/07 offences per 1000 population Bedford - 57 Bedfordshire - 59 England and Wales - 61

recorded crime rates are higher than for Bedfordshire and England and Wales

Home Office

Fear of crime levels no information available

126

Appendix 4 Development of the sustainability appraisal objectives The following table uses the draft objectives of the integrated regional strategy ‘Sustainable Futures’ to develop draft sustainability appraisal (SA) objectives for the SA of the Allocations and Designations Plan. Source of issues/wording Other sources of wording Sustainable Futures regional objective

SEA Directive Other plans or strategies

Issues and problems identified

Proposed SA objective

1. separate economic growth from increases in resource use, especially in terms of energy and water

material assets water air

RES PPS4 Water resources for the Core Strategy EE Plan

water use increasing

Ensure economic growth does not increase resource use (especially water and energy)

2. reduce greenhouse gas emissions

climatic factors air

PPS1 Core Strategy EE Plan

population increasing borough is a growth area for new homes and businesses AQMA designated

Reduce greenhouse gas emissions

3. adapt to impacts of climate change

climatic factors Securing the Future PPS1 PPS22 EE Plan Core Strategy

over 12,000 properties at risk of flooding

Adapt to impacts of climate change, including flood risk

4. protect and enhance the region’s natural and historic environmental assets

biodiversity flora fauna soil material assets architectural and archaeological heritage landscape

PPS1 PPS5 PPS7 Rural Strategy PPS9 PPG17 PPS25 EE Plan R Env Strategy Core Strategy Beds and Luton BAP Marston Vale Forest Plan

over 1200 listed buildings 71 scheduled ancient monuments SSSI local nature reserves conservation areas important views locally important habitats and species Forest Of Marston Vale

Protect and enhance the natural and historic features of the borough

127

Source of issues/wording Other sources of wording Sustainable Futures regional objective




low proportion of grade 1 agricultural land remains

5. create, conserve and enhance distinctive local environments

material assets PPS5 PPS7 PPS9 EE Plan SR Green Infrastructure Guide Core Strategy Beds and Luton BAP Marston Vale Forest Plan

conservation areas important views locally important habitats and species green infrastructure

Create, conserve and enhance distinctive local environments, habitats and species

6. use resources more efficiently, minimising waste and increasing rates or re use and recycling

material assets PPS10 Waste strategy for England PPS22 PPS23 EE Plan R Env Strategy Water Resources for the future Core Strategy

energy use increasing/static household waste recycling 27% municipal waste recycling 38% low level of previously developed land available water efficiency required

Use resources efficiently, minimise water use, maximise recycling/re-use

7. reduce levels of poverty and exclusion

population human health

EE Plan Regional Social Strategy Core Strategy Social Inclusion/ Anti Poverty strategy Older Peoples Strategy

deprivation pockets in three areas inclusive new development meet the needs of the elderly

Reduce levels of deprivation and exclusion, particularly the elderly and those from disadvantaged backgrounds

8. provide decent and affordable homes for all

population PPS1 PPS7 PPS3 Delivering affordable housing Circular 4/2007 EE Plan

housing affordability decreasing affordable housing needed Travelling Show People sites needed empty homes

Provide a range of quality homes for all, especially affordable housing

128





RHS Core Strategy Housing Strategy Empty homes strategy

are being brought back into use

9. achieve health and income equality

human health PPS1 EE Plan Healthy Futures RES Core Strategy

incomes increasing health and life expectancy better than the national average

Achieve healthy lifestyles and provide facilities to enable this

10. provide effective social infrastructure and services

population cultural heritage

PPS7 Safer places EE Plan Regional Social Strategy Core Strategy Town Centre AAP CDASB Strategy Social Inclusion/ Anti Poverty strategy Local Transport Plan

number of older people is increasing services and facilities in parishes have been assessed and need updating, access to services needs to be assessed. social infrastructure

Provide social infrastructure for all ages and accessible services and facilities

11. promote sustainable lifestyles

population PPS1 White Paper EE Plan Regional Social Strategy Core Strategy

municipal waste recycling 38% travel to work data almost 40% by car, higher than average travel by bus, foot, cycle water consumption increasing energy use not increasing/static

Promote sustainable lifestyles (add decision making criteria about recycling, travel by modes other than the private car, water and energy use)

12. meet the needs of the changing regional

population EE Plan RES R Env Strategy

household size is declining number of older people is

Meet the needs of a changing population

129





demographic RHS A Better Life SR Green Infrastructure Guide

increasing high proportion of the population is Asian/Asian British and black/black British Caribbean

(add decision making criteria about older people, ethnic diversity and smaller households)

13. to promote wellbeing through community cohesion and social capital

population PPS1 White Paper PPS7 Safer Places Regional Social Strategy Sustainable Community Strategy

no trend data available at present

Promote community involvement in place shaping by all groups in society

14. deliver low carbon building to support continued economic growth

PPS1 RES EE Plan Core Strategy Town Centre AAP

CO2 emissions are below UK and regional average

Deliver low carbon buildings, whatever their use

15. harness the region’s economic strengths specifically in science and R&D

EE Plan RES MKSM Core Strategy Town Centre AAP

number of businesses increasing unemployment is falling majority of employment are in the wholesale and retail trade repairs industries

Support the borough’s economy and specifically encourage the high value knowledge based industries

16. improve the skills base through increased learning opportunities for all

PPS1 RES EE Plan Regional Social Strategy Core Strategy Social Inclusion/ Anti Poverty strategy

high % of people have no qualifications, low % have NVQ1 or NVQ2 level

Improve the skills of the labour force

17. minimise air PPG13 air quality Minimise

130





transport growth whilst capturing the economic benefits of international gateways

EE Plan Local Transport Plan Core Strategy

issues related to transport in Bedford travel to work data almost 40% by car, higher than average travel by bus, foot, cycle services and facilities in parishes have been assessed and need updating, access to services needs to be assessed.

transport growth(add decision making criteria to include travel by modes other than the private car, air quality and accessibility)

18. move towards sustainable consumption and production

White Paper PPS1 PPS10 Waste Strategy PPS22 Water resources for the future EE Plan Core Strategy

water consumption increasing energy use not increasing/static Municipal waste recycling 38% Low level of previously developed land available Water efficiency required

Move towards sustainable consumption and production

Abbreviations: R Env Strategy – Regional Environment Strategy SR Green Infrastructure Guide – Sub-Regional Green Infrastructure Guide RES – Regional Economic Strategy Core Strategy – Core Strategy and Rural Issues Plan Beds and Luton BAP – Biodiversity Action Plan EE Plan – East of England Plan RHS – Regional Housing Strategy CDASB Strategy – Crime, Drugs and anti-social behaviour strategy PPS1 – Delivering Sustainable Development and PPS1 supplement Planning and Climate Change MKSM – Milton Keynes South Midlands Sub-Regional Strategy The draft objectives from the table above are: 1. Ensure economic growth does not increase resource use (especially water and

energy)

131

2. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions 3. Adapt to impacts of climate change, including flood risk 4. Protect and enhance the natural and historic features of the Borough 5. Create, conserve and enhance distinctive local environments, habitats and

species 6. Use resources efficiently, minimise water use, maximise recycling/re-use 7. Reduce levels of deprivation and exclusion, particularly the elderly and those

from disadvantaged backgrounds 8. Provide a range of quality homes for all, especially affordable housing 9. Achieve healthy lifestyles and provide facilities to enable this 10. Provide social infrastructure for all ages and accessible services and facilities 11. Promote sustainable lifestyles 12. Meet the needs of a changing population 13. Promote community involvement in place shaping by all groups in society 14. Deliver low carbon buildings, whatever their use 15. Support the borough’s economy and specifically encourage the high value

knowledge based industries 16. Improve the skills of the labour force 17. Minimise transport growth 18. Move towards sustainable consumption and production The above draft objectives need to be tested against each other to ensure they are compatible. The diagram below illustrates this process. Compatibility matrix between draft SA objectives: (o = compatible, x = conflicting, s = similar, consider combining the two objectives) 1 1 2 2 o 3 3 o o 4 4 o o o 5 5 o o o s 6 6 s o s o o 7 7 o o o o o o 8 8 o x o o o o o 9 9 o o o o o o o o 1010 o o o o o o o o o 1111 o o o o o s o o o o 1212 o x o o o o o o o o o 1313 o o o o o o o o o o o o 1414 o o o o o o o o o o o o o 15 15 o o o o o o o o o o o o o o 16 16 o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o 17 17 o o o o o o x x o o o o o o x o 1818 o o o o o s o o o o o o o o o o o The diagram above identifies some conflicts between objectives and some similarities and overlap in their content. This is highlighted in the table below, with proposed solutions.

132

Objectives Issue Proposed solution 1 & 6 s Both concerned with resources,

although 1 specifically relates to economic growth

Combine 1 and 6 to read: Use resources efficiently, maximise recycling and re-use

2 & 8 x Building new homes will increase greenhouse gas emissions

Recognise the conflict, SA process should minimise new emissions

2 & 12 x The needs of the population may be for new buildings/roads etc which may lead to increased greenhouse gas emissions


3 & 6 s Both concerned with adapting to climate change

Keep objective 3 and combine 1 and 6.

4 & 5 s Both relate to natural features One objective should relate to natural features and the other built features

6 & 11 s Both relate to sustainable lifestyles

Combine 6 & 11 to read: Promote sustainable lifestyles, use resources efficiently, maximise recycling and re-use

6 & 18 s Both relate to consumption and production

Combine 1 and 6 and discard 18

7 & 17 x Minimal transport growth may disadvantage some groups and/or the elderly

By ensuring access to services are maximised (objective 10 above) the SA process will minimise the potential disadvantage

8 & 17 x Minimal transport growth will depend upon where the homes are located

Recognise the conflict, the SA process will take location into account

15 & 17 x Minimal transport growth will depend upon where the employment sites are located

Recognise the conflict, the SA process will take location into account

Having made the amendments to the draft objectives as explained above, the objectives change to the following: 1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions 2. Adapt to impacts of climate change, including flood risk 3. Protect and enhance the natural and historic features of the Borough 4. Create, conserve and enhance distinctive local environments, habitats and

species 5. Promote sustainable lifestyles, use resources efficiently, maximise recycling and

re-use 6. Reduce levels of deprivation and exclusion, particularly the elderly and those

from disadvantaged backgrounds 7. Provide a range of quality homes for all, especially affordable housing 8. Achieve healthy lifestyles and provide facilities to enable this 9. Provide social infrastructure for all ages and accessible services and facilities 10. Meet the needs of a changing population 11. Promote community involvement in place shaping by all groups in society 12. Deliver low carbon buildings, whatever their use 13. Support the borough’s economy and specifically encourage the high value

knowledge based industries

133

14. Improve the skills of the labour force 15. Minimise transport growth. Following public consultation on the Scoping Report, the Sustainability Appraisal Report on the Issues and Options Consultation Document, the Sustainability Appraisal Report on the Draft Allocations and Designations Plan (and Addendum) (see Appendix 1 for details) the objectives have been further revised as follows: 1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions 2. Reduce the risk of flooding including adapting to the impacts of climate change 3. Protect and enhance the historic environment (and cultural heritage) of the

borough 4. Create, conserve, protect and enhance the borough’s natural features, distinctive

local environments, habitats and species 5. Promote sustainable lifestyles, use resources efficiently, maximise recycling and


from disadvantaged backgrounds 7. Provide a range of quality homes for all, especially affordable housing 8. Achieve healthy lifestyles and provide facilities to enable this 9. Provide social infrastructure for all ages and accessible services and facilities 10. Meet the needs of a changing population 11. Promote community involvement by all groups in society in place shaping 12. Deliver low carbon buildings, whatever their use 13. Support the borough’s economy and specifically encourage the high value

knowledge based industries 14. Improve the skills of the labour force 15. Minimise growth in car usage, reduce the need to travel and promote the shift to

more sustainable modes of transport 16. Strong local identity and sense of place 17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime. Applying the compatibility matrix as previously produces the following: 1 1 2 2 o 3 3 o o 4 4 o o o 5 5 o o o o 6 6 o o o o o 7 7 x o o o o o 8 8 o o o o o o o 9 9 o o o o o o o o 10 10 o x o o o o o o o 11 11 o o o o o o o o o o 12 12 o o o o o o o o o o o 13 13 o o o o o o o o o o o o 14 14 o o o o o o o o o o o o o 15 15 o o o o o o o o o x o o o o 16 16 o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o 17 17 o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o

134

The diagram identifies some conflicts between objectives but no similarities or overlap. These are highlighted in the table below. No further changes are needed to the objectives. Objectives Issue Proposed solution 1 & 7 x Building new homes will increase

greenhouse gas emissions Recognise the conflict, SA process should minimise new emissions

2 & 10 x The needs of the population may be for new buildings/roads etc which may lead to increased greenhouse gas emissions


10 & 15 x The needs of the population (especially in rural areas) may lead to travel by car

Recognise the conflict, SA process should minimise need to travel where possible

135

Appendix 5 Sustainability appraisal framework Headline Objective

Headline Indicator

Detailed decision making criteria

Detailed Indicator

Will it reduce energy consumption?


Will it increase the amount of energy from renewable sources?

Renewable energy capacity installed by type Proportion of energy from renewable sources

1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions

Emissions of greenhouse gases in the local authority area

Will it contribute to achieving the aims of the AQMA Action Plan?

Nitrogen dioxide levels in the AQMA

Will it reduce the risk of flooding?

Number of dwellings in the flood risk zones

Has water efficiency been maximised?

Water savings through efficiency measures

Will it deliver timely investment in water infrastructure?

Water infrastructure provision

2. Reduce the risk of flooding including adapting to the impacts of climate change

Number of planning permissions granted contrary to Environment Agency advice

Will it be harmful to water and river quality?

Water and river quality

Will it protect or enhance a listed building or its setting?

(not identified)

Will it protect or enhance a Scheduled Ancient Monument?

(not identified)

Will it protect or enhance a listed building, conservation area, registered park or SAM at risk?

Listed buildings, conservation area, registered parks or SAMs on the heritage at risk register

3. Protect and enhance the built historic features and cultural heritage of the borough

Permissions granted contrary to English Heritage or Conservation Officer advice

Will it protect or enhance archaeological features?

(not identified)

4. Create, (not identified) Will it help to halt the SSSI in favourable

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Headline Objective

Headline Indicator


Detailed Indicator

decline in condition of any SSSI?

condition

Will it protect/enhance priority habitats?

(not identified)

Will it protect/enhance priority species?

(not identified)

Will it contribute to the objectives of the Marston Vale Community Forest?

New woodland in the community forest

Will it protect/enhance the landscape and/or green spaces?

(not identified)

Will it deliver timely investment in green infrastructure?

Green infrastructure created through the planning process

conserve, protect and enhance the borough’s natural features, distinctive local environments, habitats and species

Will it protect or enhance a registered park or garden?

(not identified)

Will it maximise the use of previously developed land?

% of development on PDL

Will it increase the % of municipal waste recycling?

% of municipal waste recycled

Will it minimise water use?

Water consumption

5. Promote sustainable lifestyles, use resources efficiently, maximise recycling and re-use

(not identified)

Will it minimise energy use?

Energy consumption

Will it reduce deprivation in the wards of Castle, Cauldwell and Queens Park?

Deprivation levels by ward

6. Reduce levels of deprivation and exclusion, particularly the elderly and those from disadvantaged backgrounds

Indices of deprivation by local authority

Does it take account of the needs of the elderly?

(not identified)

Will it meet the needs of Travelling Showpeople?

Pitches for Travelling Showpeople

Will it increase the provision of housing?

Housing units completed per year

7. Provide a range of quality homes for all, especially affordable housing

Housing provision to meet the requirement set at regional level

Will it meet affordable housing needs?

Affordable housing provision

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Headline Objective

Headline Indicator


Detailed Indicator

Will it provide a range of homes to meet needs?

Range of homes provided

Will the development be of high quality?

(not identified)

Will it provide sufficient recreation and leisure facilities?

Range of recreation and leisure facilities

Will it encourage walking and cycling?

% of people travel to work by walking and cycling

Will it increase access to parks?

Accessibility of parks

Will it increase the length of public footpaths?

Length of public footpaths

8. Achieve healthy lifestyles and provide facilities to enable this

(not identified)

Will it increase the % of children who walk to school?

% of children who walk to school

Will it increase access to services and facilities?

Services within 30 minutes public transport time (GP, hospital, schools, employment area, retail centre)

9. Provide social infrastructure for all ages and accessible services and facilities

(not identified)

Will it provide needed services and facilities?

(not identified)

Will it meet the needs of the ageing population?

(not identified)

Will it meet the needs of the borough’s mixed ethnic population?

(not identified)

10. Meet the needs of a changing population

(not identified)

Will it meet the needs of smaller households?

(not identified)

11. Promote community involvement by all groups in society in place shaping

Number of representations received on policy documents

Will it promote community involvement from ethnic minority groups?

Number of representations on policy documents received from ethnic minority groups

12. Deliver low carbon buildings, whatever their use

(not identified) Will it provide a low carbon building?

Number of ‘net zero carbon’ buildings

Will it provide more employment opportunities?

Number of jobs in the borough

13. Support the borough’s economy and specifically encourage the

(not identified)

Will it encourage the high value

Number of jobs within the high

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Headline Objective

Headline Indicator


Detailed Indicator

high value knowledge based industries

knowledge based industries?

value knowledge based industries

Will it improve the employment prospects of males aged 20-24?

(not identified) 14. Improve the skills of the labour force

Qualification levels

Will it improve skills and qualifications?

Skills and qualification levels

Will it support infrastructure needs?

Level of infrastructure provision

Will it encourage the use of modes of transport other then the private car?

Bus usage Mode of travel to work

Will it improve accessibility?

New residential development within 30 minutes public transport time of services

Will it negatively impact upon air quality?

Air quality in transport corridors

15. Minimise growth in car usage, reduce the need to travel and promote the shift to more sustainable modes of transport

Mode of travel to work

Will it reduce traffic congestion?

Traffic congestion levels

Will it enhance the townscape?

(not identified) 16. Strong local identify and sense of place

Number of developments that meet CABE Building for Life standards

Will it provide a strong local identity and sense of place?

(not identified)

Will it minimise crime?

Crime rates 17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime

Criminal offences per 1000 population Will it minimise the

fear of crime? Fear of crime levels

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Appendix 6 Appraisal of options The following tables are the appraisals of the options included in the Issues and Options Paper. The tables use the following symbols: Major positive effect Positive effect O Neutral effect ? Uncertain effect X Negative effect XX Major negative effect

140

Appraisal of options – Housing in the Bedford Growth Area SA Objectives Option H1 – Make no

further allocations and rely on existing commitments to meet the 16,270 dwelling target in the Growth Area by 2021

Option H2 – To provide flexibility in case of under-delivery by 10% of the current supply, make additional provision for 1,400 dwellings in the Growth Area through further allocations

Option H3 – To provide flexibility in case of under-delivery by 20% of the current supply, make additional provision for 2,800 dwellings in the Growth Area through further allocations

Option H4 – To provide flexibility in case of under-delivery by more than 20% of the current supply, make additional provision for more than 2,800 dwellings in the growth area through further allocations


No further housing development will mean no further emissions, but no reductions.

X Further housing would lead to CO2 emissions from traffic and construction. Homes could be carbon neutral.




No further housing development will mean no further impacts on flooding BUT also no associated alleviation measures.

? Would depend upon where in the growth area the 1,400 is located.

? Would depend upon where in the growth area the 2,800 is located. Impact is greater than option H2.

? Would depend upon where in the growth area the 2,800+ is located. Impact is greater than options H2 and H3.

3. Protect and enhance the built historic features and cultural heritage of the Borough

O No further housing development will mean no negative or positive impact on built historic/cultural features.

? Would depend upon where in the growth area the 1,400 is located and mitigation measures if required.

? Would depend upon where in the growth area the 2,800 is located and mitigation measures if required.

? Would depend upon where in the growth area the 2,800+ is located and mitigation measures if required.

4. Create, conserve, protect and enhance the Borough’s natural features, distinctive local

O No further housing development will mean no negative or positive impact

? Development could have negative impacts although new habitats/species/local



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environments, habitats and species

on the natural environment.

environments could be created.




O No contribution to the objective

Opportunity for innovation in design and efficiency





? Would depend upon whether the 1,400 are located in the deprived areas and design considerations

? Would depend upon whether the 2,800 are located in the deprived areas and design considerations

? Would depend upon whether the 2,800+ are located in the deprived areas and design considerations


O No contribution to range of homes or affordable housing.

Significant contribution to this objective





? Housing could provide associated health/leisure facilities





Would depend upon the site(s) location and what infrastructure is required










Opportunity for community involvement





Potential significant contribution to this



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objective objective objective 13. Support the borough’s economy and specifically encourage the high value knowledge based industries


Potential to boost workforce and bring new skills into the area



14. Improve the skills of the labour force






O No new housing would minimise growth in growth area but could mean commuting to Bedford

? Would depend upon location of site(s) and the transport measures put into place



16. Strong local identity and sense of place


Potential for quality development(s)



17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime


? Not known.

? Not known.

? Not known.

Overall Conclusions: Option H1 – Would have a negative effect on the delivery of housing but mainly no effect on the plan’s objectives. Positive effect on flooding and CO2 emissions; the situation would not be worsened as a result of the option. Option H2, 3 and 4 – Options would have mixed effects. The lack of detail about where the new developments would be located within the growth area leads to some effects being uncertain. There are negative effects on CO2 emissions and the natural environment from all three options. Appraisal of options – Housing in the Rural Policy Area SA Objectives Option H5 - Make no further

allocations for either private Option H6 - Make housing allocations only to meet proven

Option H7 - Make allocations for mixed use developments (e.g. a

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housing or affordable housing. Use the exception policy in order to maintain a supply of affordable housing in the Rural Policy Area as and when the need is identified.

need i.e. to meet the needs of local communities

development comprising both housing and employment) to meet proven need i.e. to meet the needs of local communities


? Likely to increase car usage but would depend on whether new homes made new public transport routes possible / viable

? The CO2 increase would depend upon the scale of development and whether new homes were carbon neutral or made new public transport routes possible / viable

? The CO2 increase would depend upon the scale of development and whether new homes were carbon neutral or made new public transport routes possible / viable


? Would depend upon the location of the development(s)

? Would depend upon the location and scale of development(s)



? Would depend upon the location and scale of the development(s)



4. Create, conserve, protect and enhance the Borough’s natural features, distinctive local environments, habitats and species

X? Development could have negative impacts although new habitats/species/local environments could be created. Effect would depend upon location and scale of development.







6. Reduce levels of deprivation and exclusion, particularly the elderly and those from

Potential significant effect



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disadvantaged backgrounds 7. Provide a range of quality homes for all, especially affordable housing

Significant contribution to affordable housing BUT not market housing




? Development could include provision of facilities




? Development could include provision of services/ facilities

? Development could include provision of services/ facilities

Mixed development could include provision of services/ facilities


Meet affordable housing needs

Meet housing and affordable housing needs

Meet housing and affordable housing needs and other needs in one development






Potential significant contribution to this objective



13. Support the borough’s economy and specifically encourage the high value knowledge based industries

Potential to support rural economy

Potential to support rural economy

Potential to support rural economy by provision of employment/retail premises




Potential local employment opportunities


X Likely to increase/maintain car usage levels unless new homes made new public transport routes possible / viable

X Likely to increase/maintain car usage levels unless new homes made new public transport routes possible / viable

X Likely to increase/maintain car usage levels unless new development made new public transport routes possible / viable

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? Not known

? Not known

? Not known

Overall Conclusions: Option H5 – Effects would depend upon the location and scale of the development. Potential negative effects are increased car usage and effects on the natural environment. Option provides positive social effects and potential economic benefits to the village(s). Option H6 and H7 – These options have similar effects. The likelihood of the development of planned social infrastructure and employment and retail development is increased by option H7 (as land outside the Settlement Policy Area would be considered for this type of development rather than just land inside the Settlement Policy Area). Potential negative effects are increased car usage and effects on the natural environment. Appraisal of options – Gypsies, Travellers and travelling show people SA Objectives Option GT1 -

Concentrate Gypsy and Traveller provision into a few larger sites

Option GT2 – Spread Gypsy and Traveller provision into several smaller sites

Option GT3 - Make provision for business use as part of Gypsy and Traveller site allocations

Option GT4 – Do not make provision for business use as part of Gypsy and Traveller site allocations

Option GT5 – Make provision for a limited number of visitor spaces in all new permanent Gypsy and Traveller site allocations

Option GT6 – Do not make provision for visitor spaces in new permanent Gypsy and Traveller sites


? Cannot anticipate whether pitches would affect CO2 output


Would decrease the need to travel




2. Reduce the risk of flooding including adapting

? The risk would depend upon





O

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to the impacts of climate change

where the pitches were located and mitigation




where the visitor spaces were located and mitigation


? Depend upon the location and size of the sites and mitigation measures




? Would depend upon the size and locations of the visitor spaces and mitigation measures

O






? Depend upon the location and size of the visitor spaces and mitigation measures

O


? Are pitches more sustainable than a more transient lifestyle?


? Are pitches more sustainable than a more transient lifestyle? Employment would be close to place of residence


? Are pitches and visitor spaces more sustainable than a more transient lifestyle?

O

6. Reduce levels of deprivation and exclusion, particularly the elderly and those

Pitches would allow inclusion and reduce disadvantage

Pitches would allow inclusion and reduce disadvantage.

Pitches would allow inclusion and reduce disadvantage but




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from disadvantaged backgrounds

Smaller sites would allow more inclusion

business use would isolate the residents


Would provide needed accommodation





O


Would provide toilet/shower and washing facilities




O O


Would increase access to services and facilities (depends upon locations)

Would increase access to services and facilities (depends upon locations)

Would increase access to services and facilities


Would provide necessary facilities

O


Would meet need for pitches




Would meet need for visitor spaces

O


Would include involvement from the Gypsy and Traveller community







Potential to provide low carbon buildings




O O

13. Support the O O O O O

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borough’s economy and specifically encourage the high value knowledge based industries

Would provide business space


Would allow access for children to local schools and adults to training




O O


Would reduce the need to travel


Would reduce the need to travel to find pitches and also travel to work



O


? Would depend upon design





O


? Not known.

? Not known.

? Not known.

? Not known.

? Not known.

O

Overall conclusions: Options GT1 and GT2 – Positive social effects for the Gypsy and Traveller community. Uncertain effects on the environment and crime/fear of crime. Uncertain effects as the exact size and location of the site(s) are not known. The difference between the two options is the size and

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potentially the spread of the sites across the Borough. For example, two larger sites would affect two localities, four smaller sites would affect more localities and thus a wider geographic area. As the locations are not known however, the effects are uncertain. Option GT3 – Mixed social effects for the Gypsy and Traveller community as access to services and facilities increase but with the businesses on site, this would isolate the community. There are potential positive economic effects for the community by providing local employment. Uncertain effects on the environment and crime/fear of crime. Uncertain effects as the size and location of the site(s) are not known. Option GT4 – The same effects as options GT1 and GT2 which also contain no provision for business use. Option GT5 – Providing visitor spaces would provide positive social effects for the Gypsy and Traveller Community and would reduce the need to travel. The environmental effects are uncertain as the location of the site(s) is not known. Option GT6 – The option has no effect on the majority of the objectives. Positive effects are social; inclusion of the Gypsy and Traveller community in the decision making process and the reduction in disadvantage. Appraisal of options – Gypsies, Travellers and travelling show people (continued) SA Objectives Option GT7 –

Take account of the way of managing Gypsy and Traveller sites in the selection of sites (e.g. management by the Gypsy and Traveller community, management by private developer/housing association, management by the Council)

Option GT8 – Do not take account of the way of managing Gypsy and Traveller sites in the selection of sites

Option GT9 - Allocate land for 7 pitches for travelling show people’s accommodation for the period 2006-12 and await regional guidance for the remainder of the plan period

Option GT10 – Allocate land for 7 pitches for travelling show people’s accommodation for the period 2007-12 and a further number to be determined for the remainder of the plan period pending regional guidance

Option GT11 – Allocate land for travelling show people’s accommodation on one site only

Option GT12 – Allocate land for travelling show people’s accommodation on more than one site


O O ? Cannot anticipate whether pitches

? Cannot anticipate whether pitches



150

would affect CO2 output





O O ? The risk would depend upon where the pitches were located and mitigation

? The risk would depend upon where the pitches were located and mitigation

? The risk would depend upon where the pitch was located and mitigation

? The risk would depend upon where the pitches were located and mitigation


O O ? Depend upon the location of the site(s) and mitigation measures and number of sites

? Depend upon the location of the site(s) and mitigation measures and number of sites

? Depend upon the location of the site and mitigation measures

? Depend upon the locations of the sites and mitigation measures


O O ? Depend upon the location and of the site(s) and mitigation measures and number of sites

? Depend upon the location and of the site(s) and mitigation measures and number of sites

? Depend upon the location of the site and mitigation measures

? Depend upon the locations of the sites and mitigation measures


O O A permanent site(s) could be re-used

A permanent site(s) could be re-used

O O

6. Reduce levels of deprivation and

O O Pitches would

Pitches would

Site would allow

? Sites would allow

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exclusion, particularly the elderly and those from disadvantaged backgrounds

allow inclusion and reduce disadvantage

allow inclusion and reduce disadvantage

inclusion and reduce disadvantage

inclusion and reduce disadvantage BUT could split show people community across sites


O O Would provide needed accommodation (but to 2012 only)

Would provide needed accommodation to 2021




O O O

O O O


O O Would increase access to services and facilities





O O Would meet need for pitches to 2012

Would meet need for pitches to 2021




O O Would include involvement from the travelling show people community

Would include involvement from the travelling show people community



12. Deliver low O O

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carbon buildings, whatever their use






O O O O O O


O O Would allow access for children to local schools and adults to training





O O Would reduce the need to travel





O O ? Would depend upon design





O O ? Not known

? Not known

? Not known

? Not known

Overall conclusions:

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Option GT7 – The option relates to the management of the site(s). There are no anticipated effects from the option on the sustainability objectives. Option GT8 - The option relates to the management of the site(s). There are no anticipated effects from the option on the sustainability objectives. Options GT9 and GT10 – Positive social effects for the Travelling show people community. There are uncertain effects on the environment and crime/fear of crime. Uncertain effects as the location of the site(s) are not known. Uncertainty in GT9 as the option only deals with the period up to 2012, after that date the number of pitches to be provided is not known. Option GT10 provides more certainty than option GT9 as the number of pitches for the whole plan period is provided. Options GT11 and GT12 - Positive social effects for the Travelling show people community. There are uncertain effects on the environment and crime/fear of crime. The effect is uncertain for both options, without knowing the location of the site or sites, choosing which option has the more positive effect is not possible. Appraisal of options – Amount of employment land to be allocated SA Objectives Option E1 - Allocate 21

hectares of land for B1 employment purposes in line with completions since 2001 and current commitments.

Option E2 - Allocate more than 21 hectares of land for B1 employment purposes to account for non-delivery of commitments.

Option E3 - Rely on commitments and re-use or redevelopment of existing employment sites to provide for general industry and warehousing development needs as well as B1.

Option E4 - Allocate additional land for general industry and warehousing development for qualitative reasons in addition to land for B1.


X Employment development would generate CO2





? Risk would depend upon the location of the site(s) and mitigation measures


? Risk would depend upon the nature of the re-use or redevelopment and mitigation measures


3. Protect and enhance the built historic features

? Would depend upon the




154

and cultural heritage of the Borough

location and scale of the development(s)

location and scale of the development(s) (how much more than 21 hectares?)

nature of the re-use or redevelopment and mitigation measures

location and scale of the development(s) as well as the use class (B1, 2 or 8)


X? Development could have negative impacts although new habitats/species/local environments could be created. Effect would depend upon location and scale of development

X? Development could have negative impacts although new habitats/species/local environments could be created. Effect would depend upon location and scale of development. (how much more than 21 hectares?)

X? Development could have negative impacts although new habitats/species/local environments could be created. Effect would depend upon location, scale of development and use class (B1, 2 or 8)

X? Development could have negative impacts although new habitats/species/local environments could be created. Effect would depend upon location, scale of development and use class (B1, 2 or 8)


? Effect would depend upon the location(s) chosen, accessibility by public transport and design


? Effect would depend upon accessibility by public transport and design



? Deprivation in deprived wards could be lessened if employment sites were located there


? Re-use and redevelopment could provide further employment opportunities



O O O O


? Walking and cycling to the site(s) could be encouraged, would depend upon chosen


? Walking and cycling to the could be encouraged, would depend upon site location and design


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location and design location and design location and design 9. Provide social infrastructure for all ages and accessible services and facilities

O O O O


Help meet employment needs





O O O O


New developments could contribute to this objective






Significant contribution to this objective (but would not deliver B2 or B8)

Significant contribution to this objective (although choice of location is limited to existing sites)



Employment opportunities will be created





Would depend upon site(s) location, accessibility and design


Would depend upon improving accessibility and design to existing sites



Potential positive contribution, design crucial





? Potential positive




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contribution, design crucial contribution, design crucial contribution, design crucial contribution, design crucial Overall conclusions: All options have similar sustainability effects. Options E1 and E2 focus solely on B1 provision (with no general industry or warehousing) and as such the effect on economic objective 13 is greatest. The mix of B1 uses, general industry and warehousing sites is also a significant factor in terms of environmental and economic impact, but not stated in options E3 and E4. More differences between the options would be visible if the sites were identified and ‘more than 21’ could be quantified. Options E3 and E4 do not mention how much B1 land and as such it is not clear whether is would be 21 hectare or more than 21 (and if so how much more)? Appraisal of options – Size and location of employment allocations SA Objectives Option E5 - Allocate only one major

strategic employment site in the Bedford Growth Area providing the majority of new employment space.

Option E6 - Divide the requirement into two strategic employment sites in the Bedford Growth Area providing the majority of new employment space.

Option E7 - Divide the requirement into several smaller employment sites in the Bedford Growth Area to reduce the risk of non-delivery


X New development will increase CO2




? Effect would depend upon location and mitigation measures








? Effect would depend upon location chosen, design and mitigation measures and creation of new habitat/species

? Effect would depend upon the 2 locations chosen, design and mitigation measures and creation of new habitat/species

? Effect would depend upon the several sites chosen, design and mitigation measures and creation of new habitat/species

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Design crucial and would depend upon whether site is PDL

Design crucial and would depend upon whether sites are PDL

Design crucial and would depend upon whether sites are PDL


O O O


O O O


Location is important to encourage walking/cycling

Locations are important to encourage walking/cycling

Locations are important to encourage walking/cycling


O O O


Meet employment needs in the growth area




O O O


Potential to contribute significantly



13. Support the borough’s economy and specifically encourage the high value knowledge based




158

industries 14. Improve the skills of the labour force

Increase job opportunities




One site would minimise car usage as car pooling, walking/cycling and bus/rail travel all viable (dependent upon location)

? Two sites could increase car usage more than one site (would depend upon site locations)

? Several sites could increase car usage more than one/two site (would depend upon site locations)


? Effect depends upon design. One large site could have greater impact.

? Effect depends upon location and design

? Effect depends upon location and design


? Not known. Effect would depend upon design



Overall conclusions: Options E5, E6 and E7 – All options for the Growth Area would have similar sustainability effects. The uncertainty of the exact location of the site or sites does not allow the effects on car usage and the environment to be predicated accurately and thus the differences between the three options are minimal. The design of the site or sites would be crucial in terms of social effects. Significant positive effects on the economy. Appraisal of options – Size and location of employment allocations (continued) SA Objectives Option E8 - In the

Rural Policy Area, allocate at least one new employment site in or around the edge of each key service centre to meet the needs

Option E9 – In the Rural Policy Area allocate at least one new employment site in or around the edge of key service centres and smaller

Option E10 - In the Rural Policy Area, allocate employment sites in or around the edge of key service centres only where there is support from

Option E11- In the Rural Policy Area allocate employment sites in or around the edge of key service centres and smaller villages only

Option E12 - Allocate extensions / intensification of an appropriate scale to existing businesses in the countryside.

Option E13 - In the Rural Policy Area, make no new allocations but use policy to assess planning applications for new development as they arise

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of local communities

villages to meet the needs of local communities

local businesses / the community to meet the needs of local communities

where there is support from local businesses / the community to meet the needs of local communities

(criteria based policy).





X New development will increase CO2. Less likelihood of public transport to smaller villages, car use more likely.











? Would depend upon the nature of the site






4. Create, conserve, protect and enhance the Borough’s natural features, distinctive local environments,

? Would depend upon the sites chosen




? Would depend upon which existing sites are expanded and in which direction

? Would depend upon the sites that come forward (would not necessarily be the most sustainable)

160

habitats and species 5. Promote sustainable lifestyles, use resources efficiently, maximise recycling and re-use

Key Service Centres were chosen for their sustainable locations

? Key Service Centres were chosen for their sustainable locations and local employment opportunities in small villages may decrease commuting

Key Service Centres were chosen for their sustainable locations

? Key Service Centres were chosen for their sustainable locations and local employment opportunities in small villages may decrease commuting

? Would depend upon which existing sites are expanded and their locations

? Would depend upon the sites that come forward (would not necessarily be the most sustainable)


O O O O O O


O O O O O O


? Would depend upon accessibility by walking/cycling






9. Provide social infrastructure for all ages and

Would provide employment


? Would provide employment (but

? Would provide employment (but



161

accessible services and facilities

only if there is support)

only if there is support)

(uncertainty of application process rather than allocations)


Would provide employment (but only in KSC)

Would provide employment in KSC and smaller villages

? Would provide employment (but only where supported)

? Would provide employment in KSC and smaller villages (but only if supported)

Would provide employment (but only to existing businesses)

? Would provide employment if permission granted


O O Decision would depend upon community support

Decision would depend upon community support

O O


Would depend upon the design







Would provide employment (but not necessarily the high value industries)




X Would provide employment but would not help new businesses only existing (not necessarily the high value industries)

Would provide employment (criteria could include reference to the high value industries)


? Improve employment opportunities and maybe skills

? Improve employment opportunities and maybe skills

? Improve employment opportunities and maybe skills (depends upon

? Improve employment opportunities in a wider rural area and maybe skills

? Improve employment opportunities and maybe skills (existing

? Dependent upon applications and wording of policy

162

community support)

(depends upon community support)

businesses only)


Locations in KSC would minimise car usage as KSC have better public transport services

? Locations in KSC would minimise car usage as KSC have better public transport services, smaller village employment would minimise out commuting but may increase in commuting by car

? Locations in KSC would minimise car usage as KSC have better public transport services (depends upon public support)

? Locations in KSC would minimise car usage as KSC have better public transport services, smaller village employment would minimise out commuting but may increase in commuting by car

? Would depend upon locations of existing sites and their access by public transport/other non car modes

? Application sites may not be in the most sustainable locations


? Potential to contribute but depends upon design













Overall conclusions: Options E8 and E10 – These are most sustainable options for the Rural Policy Area in terms of minimising car usage. The difference in the options is the need for public support in option E9. This makes the effects of the options more uncertain. Positive social and economic effects. Environmental effects would depend upon the location of the sites and mitigation if required. Options E10 and E11 – Provide the opportunity for most community involvement in decision making.

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Options E9 and E11 – Positive social and economic effects. The economic effects are also more widely felt as development is proposed in smaller villages as well as Key Service Centres. Uncertainty is created by the need for public support for any proposals under option E11. Environmental effects would depend upon the location of the sites and mitigation if required. Option E12 – This option is dependent upon the location and nature of existing businesses. The option could have positive economic effects but the effect is limited to existing businesses and not potential new ones. Environmental effects depend upon the locations of existing businesses so the most environmentally positive effects cannot be secured. Social effects are limited to the existing industries and their locations. Option E13 – This option is dependent upon planning applications and effective policy and thus many effects are uncertain. Would provide employment but there is no indication as to the location in the option and thus the most sustainable locations may not be developed. Appraisal of options – Existing employment land Option E16 has been assessed on the basis that it is only a criteria based policy (no combination of a criteria based policy with either option E14 or E15). SA Objectives Option E14 -

Reassign any manufacturing and storage space that is no longer needed, for mixed use development including B1 and housing.

Option E15 - Allocate for alternative uses those existing employment sites that can be shown to be unsuitable for continued employment use

Option E16 - Either as an alternative to E14 and E15, or in conjunction with them, use policy to assess planning applications for the loss of employment land as they arise (criteria based policy).

Option E17 - Only protect from re-development to other uses the larger or more important existing employment areas and those with planning permissions. (What criteria would be used to select these sites e.g. size, location, availability of public transport, etc?)

Option E18 - Protect from re-development to other uses all existing employment sites, those that are allocated for employment uses or those that have planning permission for employment uses

Option E19 - Rather than protect employment sites or areas, use policy to protect those types of employment use that are needed in the Borough. Sites that can be shown to be unsuitable for continued employment use will be available for appropriate alternative uses

1. Reduce ? ? ? ? ? ?

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greenhouse gas emissions

Will depend upon current CO2 output and CO2 output of proposed new use







? Will depend upon location of site, design of new development and mitigation measures

? Will depend upon location of site, design of new development and mitigation measures

Criteria policy will allow for flood risk reduction to be a policy criteria

? Redevelopment may affect flood risk. Effect will depend upon design and mitigation measures

O No redevelopment

? Redevelopment may affect flood risk, dependent upon site and new proposal


? Would depend upon whether site had historic/cultural features

? Would depend upon whether site had built heritage/cultural heritage

Criteria policy will allow for built heritage/cultural heritage to be a policy criteria

X Protection of sites built heritage/cultural heritage not a consideration

All existing built heritage/cultural heritage on employment sites protected

? Would depend upon the sites in question


Mixed development could create habitats (would depend upon site and design)

Redevelopment could create habitats (would depend upon site and design)

Criteria could include natural environment habitats and species

Redevelopment could create habitats (would depend upon site and design)

? Could miss opportunities to create natural environments

? Depend upon where the uses are located

5. Promote sustainable lifestyles, use resources efficiently, maximise

? Depend upon location of the site and design and mix of uses

? Would depend upon the alternative use

Criteria could include sustainable lifestyles, efficient use of resources

? Larger or important sites could be in unsustainable locations and

? Sites could be in unsustainable locations and inefficient

? The sites with the employment uses needed could be in unsustainable locations and

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recycling and re-use

and recycling/re-use

inefficient inefficient


? Would depend upon location and what mixed use proposed.

? Would depend upon location and what alternative use proposed.

Criteria could include the reduction in exclusion and deprivation



? Would depend upon the location of the protected employment uses


Would provide housing (not necessarily in a preferred location)

? Redevelopment could include housing



O ? Redevelopment of those sites whose employment type is not needed could include housing


? Redevelopment could include for leisure/recreation use

? Reallocation could be for leisure/recreation use

Criteria could include healthy lifestyles and facility provision

? Redevelopment could include for leisure/recreation use

X No redevelopment opportunities

? Redevelopment of employment sites not needed could include for leisure/recreation use


? Would depend upon the location of the site whether the redevelopment would provide services or


Criteria could include social infrastructure


X No redevelopment opportunity to increase services or access to them


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increase access to them





Would meet various development needs

Would meet various development needs

Criteria could include needs

Sites not protected could meet various development needs

? Could be applications for redevelopment to other employment uses

Sites not needed could meet various development needs


O O O O O O




Criteria could include low carbon buildings


X No redevelopment



Support the economy

? Not clear if alternative uses would include employment

? Redevelopment could include employment

? Would protect employment sites but not clear if alternative uses of other sites would include use for employment

X Would protect existing sites

? Protect needed employment sites but uncertain at this stage what would happen to the sites that are not needed




Criteria could include reference to skills and employment prospects

New developments could contribute to this objective. Retention of skills on retained sites.

Retention of skills at retained sites and potential for skills development

New developments on sites not needed could contribute to this objective

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Would depend upon location and design of those sites redeveloped


Criteria could include minimal car usage growth


X No redevelopment and thus no contribution to the objective





Criteria could include design consideration relating to sense of identity and place







Criteria could include crime and fear of crime




Overall conclusions: Overall the use of a criteria policy (option E16) would provide the most certainty in terms of predicted sustainability effects. Option E14 – This option has no negative effects and the most positive effect out of the six options in terms of the economy. Uncertainty reflects the fact that the locations are not known and the exact proposed uses or mix of uses are not known. The option does not state at this stage what the policy approach would be to those sites that do not fall in the category of manufacturing and storage no longer needed. Option E15 - Similar effects to option E14 except the effects are not as clear due to the fact that the option does not specify what the alternative uses will be. The option does not state what the policy approach would be to those sites that fall in the category of unsuitable for continued employment use. Option E16 – The option relies on a criterion based policy to assess applications which could result in the loss of employment land. Mainly positive effects as criteria could cover many eventualities. Uncertainty relating to the fact that the possible uses of the sites are unknown.

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Option E17 – The option protects larger/important sites and sites with permission. As sites are protected there are positive economic effects although there is uncertainty about the redevelopment of the other sites (in terms of uses, location and design). The option does not state what the policy approach would be to those sites that do not fall in the category of larger/important sites and sites with permission. Option E18 – The option protects all sites (current and committed) from redevelopment to other uses. This option protects the existing employment base and allows intensification and redevelopment for employment use, but it is the least flexible to meet other needs (social, environmental and economic). Option E19 – The option protects uses and not sites. The effects are mainly uncertain as the location and potential future uses are not known. Appraisal of options – Shopping allocations SA Objectives Option SH1 - Allocate

sites for new local shopping facilities to serve major new housing developments and where needed to meet existing deficiencies.

Option SH2 - Rely on general development control policies to guide the provision of new local shops

Option SH3 – Allocate a site for a large bulky goods retailer, such as DIY or furniture, which genuinely cannot be accommodated within the town centre, adjacent to existing town centre retailing

Option SH4 – Allocate a site for a large bulky good retailer, such as DIY or furniture, which genuinely cannot be accommodated within the town centres, on under-utilised employment land that is no longer required for employment use

Option SH5 - Do not allocate a site for a large bulky goods retailer but use existing policy to assess planning applications as they arise


? Will depend upon CO2 output of proposed new use




? Will depend upon CO2 output of proposed new use (CO2 not currently mentioned in Local Plan saved policies)

2. Reduce the risk of flooding including adapting to the

? Will depend upon the location of new

? Will depend upon the wording of policy and

X? Some existing sites are in/adjacent to the

? Would depend upon the location of the

? Would depend upon the location of the

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impacts of climate change

housing and location of existing deficiencies

whether flooding considered

land liable to flood, effect will depend upon the location of the site

proposal proposal


? Effect will depend upon the location of new housing and location of existing deficiencies

? Will depend upon the wording of policy

? Effect will depend upon the location of the site


? Effect will depend upon the location of the site and Local plan saved policies relating to built/cultural heritage


? Effect will depend upon the location of new housing and location of existing deficiencies

? Will depend upon the wording of policy





? Effect will depend on whether the site is PDL

? Will depend upon the wording of policy and effect will depend whether the site is PDL

? Effect will depend on whether the site is PDL

Will maximise use of PDL

? Effect will depend whether the site is PDL


Providing retail in new housing developments would reduce exclusion and take account of needs of the elderly

? Would depend upon planning applications, policy and location of sites

O O O

7. Provide a range of quality homes for all, especially affordable

O O O O O

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housing 8. Achieve healthy lifestyles and provide facilities to enable this

O O O O O


Providing retail in new housing developments and where needed to meet deficiencies would provide facilities


? Would depend upon accessibility of location chosen

? Would depend upon accessibility of location chosen

? Saved Local Plan policies include accessibility criteria. Would depend upon accessibility of location chosen


Would meet retail needs




? Would meet retail needs (dependent upon application)


? Potential involvement in identification of existing deficiencies

Involvement in policy formulation and planning applications

Involvement in site selection

Involvement in site selection

Involvement in the planning application


Potential to contribute to this objective






New retail will aid the economy





14. Improve the skills

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of the labour force Provide employment opportunities

Provide employment opportunities





Providing retail in new housing developments and where needed would minimise need to travel

? Depends upon policy wording and location of applications

? Depends upon the location of the site (site adjacent to existing retail would encourage linked trips)

? Depends upon the location of the site

? Depends upon the location of the site


Potential to contribute dependent upon design











Overall conclusions: Option SH1 – The effects are mainly positive in terms of social and economic objectives. Uncertain effects relate to environmental impact as the locations of the new retail sites are not known. Option SH2 – The effects are mainly uncertain or dependent upon certain factors. The wording of the policy is crucial to the effects on the environment and society. Option SH3 – The effects are mixed. The environmental effects are uncertain as the exact location of the large bulky good retailer is not known. Economic effects would be positive. Social effects would be neutral. Potential positive effect on reducing car usage as locating the retailer at an existing retailing site would enable linked trips. Option SH4 – Similar effects to option SH3 except linked trips are less likely. Option SH5 – Saved Local Plan policies SH12 and SH16 would be used to assess applications for a large bulky goods retailer (as well as other general policies). The option has similar effects to options SH3 and SH4 but there is uncertainty about whether a planning application would be made and thus provision is uncertain. Appraisal of options – Shopping designations

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SA Objectives Option SH6 – Identify only local centres in the Plan and designate their boundaries on the Proposals Map. Use policies to protect essential local shopping facilities

Option SH7 – Identify local centres and other retail centres in the Plan and designate their boundaries on the Proposals Map. Use policies to protect essential local shopping facilities

Option SH8 – Identify only local centres but do not designate their boundaries on the Proposals Map. Rely on general development control policies to protect essential local shopping facilities

Option SH9 – Identify local centres and other retail centres but do not designate their boundaries on the Proposals Map. Rely on general development control policies to protect essential local shopping facilities.


O O O O


O O O O


O O O O


O O O O


O O O O

6. Reduce levels of deprivation and exclusion, particularly the elderly and

Local facilities will minimise exclusion and

Local facilities and other facilities will minimise

Local facilities will minimise exclusion and

Local facilities and other facilities will minimise

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those from disadvantaged backgrounds

takes account of the needs of the elderly and those without transport

exclusion and takes account of the needs of the elderly and those without transport

takes account of the needs of the elderly and those without transport

exclusion and takes account of the needs of the elderly and those without transport


O O O O


O O O O


Protect needed services and facilities (local)

Protect needed services and facilities (local and other)

Generally protect needed services and facilities

Generally protect needed services and facilities


Protect local shopping facilities (local)

Protect local shopping facilities (local and other)

Generally protect shopping facilities (local)

Generally protect shopping facilities (local and other)


Involvement in identifying local centres and their boundaries

Involvement in identifying local and other centres and their boundaries

Involvement in identifying local centres

Involvement in identifying local and other centres


O No new development proposed





Support retail

Support retail

Support retail

Support retail


O O O O

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Reduce the need to travel as local facilities protected

Reduce the need to travel as local and other facilities protected

? Could reduce the need to travel as facilities protected generally

? Could reduce the needs to travel as facilities protected generally


Local facilities

Local facilities

Local facilities

Local facilities


? Unknown

? Unknown

? Unknown

? Unknown

Overall conclusions: Options SH6 and SH7- these options seek to designate the boundaries of the local centres (option SH7 also designates the boundaries of other centres). The options have similar effects, the difference being that SH7 seeks to protect essential facilities at ‘other centres’ as well as at local centres. This option would therefore protect more facilities (depending upon what is meant by ‘essential’). Presumably, the policy will relate to the services within the boundary of the centres, what policy will apply to shopping facilities outside of the boundaries of these designated centres? Options SH8 and SH9 – The options seek to identify local centres (but not designate their boundaries) and protect essential local facilities with a general policy (option SH9 also identifies other centres). The options have similar effects, the difference being that SH9 identifies ‘other centres’. This option would therefore protect more facilities (depending upon what is meant by ‘essential’ and also the wording of the general policy (would this policy relate to local and other centres or facilities generally?). All options seek to protect ‘essential’ facilities but it is not clear what are the ‘essential’ facilities. This should be made clear in the policy that will be formulated for this issue so potential effects can be assessed. It is not clear if there is any difference between ‘’use policies to protect essential shopping facilities’ (options SH6 and SH7) and ‘rely on general development control policies to protect essential shopping facilities’ (options SH8 and SH9). Appraisal of options – Landscape character SA Objectives Option ENV1 -

Designate landscape character areas on the Proposals

Option ENV2 - Designate landscape character areas in an appendix to

Option ENV3 - Include landscape references in allocations for development and

Option ENV4 - Use policy to achieve an increase in woodland cover

Option ENV5 - Designate the boundary of the Forest of Marston Vale on the

Option ENV6 – A combination of options ENV4 and ENV5

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Map supported by explanatory text and policies to ensure protection and enhancement.

the Plan with explanatory text and policies to ensure protection and enhancement.

/ or use a criteria based policy to require landscape character to be considered as part of development proposals.

where appropriate in the Borough, for example: restoration schemes, in association with areas of significant growth, community forest, transport corridors, woodland linkages, etc.

Proposals Map and identify it as a priority for woodland creation in the Borough.


O O O Woodland would reduce CO2 emissions

Woodland would reduce CO2 emissions

Woodland would reduce CO2 emissions


O O O ? Tree planting could impede the flow of water (depend upon species and location)

? Tree planting could impede the flow of water (depend upon species and location)

? Tree planting could impede the flow of water (depend upon species and location)


Landscape character can include built heritage

Landscape character can include built heritage

Would ensure this objective is taken into account

O O O

4. Create, conserve, protect and enhance the

Significant contribution to this






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Borough’s natural features, distinctive local environments, habitats and species

objective

objective

objective

objective (Borough wide)

objective (limited to extent of Forest boundary)

objective (Borough wide and particularly in the Forest boundary)


O O O O O O


O O O O O O


O O O O O O


? Policy could include reference to access to landscape



Forest of Marston Vale would provide facility and countryside access



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O O O O O O


O O O Would meet need for woodland and green infrastructure in general

Would meet need for woodland and green infrastructure in general

Would meet need for woodland and green infrastructure in general


O O O Community based tree planting takes place

Community based tree planting takes place

Community based tree planting takes place


O O O O O O


O O O O O O


O O O O O O

15. Minimise growth in car

O O O O O O

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usage, reduce the need to travel and promote the shift to more sustainable modes of transport 16. Strong local identity and sense of place




Supports the objective




O O O O O O

Overall conclusions: Options ENV1 and ENV2 – The effects of the options are the same, as whether the landscape character areas are defined on the Proposals Map or the Appendix does not affect sustainability as both options proposed explanatory text and policies. There are neutral effects on the economy and society but positive environmental effects. Option ENV3 – The option would provide the same effects as options ENV1 and ENV2 except the reader would not have the information on landscape character areas within the plan itself. Options ENV4 and ENV5 – The options both have positive environmental effects, although option ENV4 will have a wider effect as it includes the Borough as a whole where as ENV5 relates solely to the defined Forest of Marston Vale. Option ENV6 - The option has positive environmental effects across the Borough and particularly in the defined Forest of Marston Vale. Appraisal of options – Other landscape areas SA Objectives Option ENV7 - Designate other specific areas

of settlement pattern / landscape priority on the Proposals Map e.g. Wyboston Land Settlement Association Area.

Option ENV8 - Do not designate any such areas but rely on a development control policy that would apply generally.

1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions O O

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O O








O O


O O


O O


O O


O O

10. Meet the needs of a changing population O O 11. Promote community involvement by all groups in society in place shaping

Community would be asked to assist the identification of these areas

Community would be asked to assist the identification of these areas


O O


O O

14. Improve the skills of the labour force O O 15. Minimise growth in car usage, reduce the need to travel and promote the shift to more sustainable modes of transport

O O


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Significant contribution to this objective Significant contribution to this objective 17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime O O Overall conclusions: The options have a neutral effect upon most objectives but a significant effect upon the environmental ones. The only difference between the two objectives relates to the specificity as ENV7 would identify sites and ENV8 would apply generally. Policy wording for option ENV8 would be crucial. Appraisal of options – Open space standards SA Objectives Option ENV9 - Continue to use the open

space standards of the saved Local Plan that reflect those developed by the NPFA (review in a future development control policies Plan).

Option ENV10 - Review open space standards now as part of the Allocations & Designations Plan to provide locally based standards.

1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions O O 2. Reduce the risk of flooding including adapting to the impacts of climate change

The location of open space could impact on flooding risk

The location of open space could impact on flooding risk


The location of open space could enhance historic/cultural features

The location of open space could enhance historic/cultural features


Open space can provide natural features, habitats and distinctive local environments

Open space can provide natural features, habitats and distinctive local environments


O O


Access to open space to all sectors of society

Local standards respond directly to local needs and address accessibility issues

7. Provide a range of quality homes for all, O O

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especially affordable housing 8. Achieve healthy lifestyles and provide facilities to enable this






10. Meet the needs of a changing population Provide open space

Meet local open space needs


? Community groups may be involved in design issues

? Community groups may be involved in design issues


O O


O O


? Open space could provide cycle/walking routes

? Open space could provide cycle/walking routes

16. Strong local identity and sense of place Open space can contribute to character and sense of place

Open space can contribute to character and sense of place

17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime ? Dependent upon design

? Dependent upon design

Overall conclusions: The options have similar effects. If the wording of the saved Local Plan policy takes account of all the objectives above where possible, there are no differences in sustainability between the two options. If the saved Local Plan policy could be expanded to refer to the objectives e.g. support the creation habitats and distinctive spaces then the policy could be improved using option ENV10. Option ENV10 provides local standards derived from a study of local needs, whereas ENV9 uses national standards.

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Appraisal of options – Recreational open space designations Option ENV11 - Show on the Proposals Map all existing open space and recreation sites based on their main use. Option ENV12 - Show on the Proposals Map only open space sites (not built facilities). Option ENV13 - Show on the Proposals Map only open space sites larger than a certain size. (What size?) The options for this issue relate to whether or not sites should be shown on the Proposals Map. The showing of these sites on the Proposals Map or not does not have any sustainability effects and thus the options do not need to be appraised. Appraisal of options – Visual amenity spaces and important gaps SA Objectives Option ENV14 - Designate and

protect spaces that represent important gaps and/or provide visual amenity within the urban area and within villages that have a defined Settlement Policy Area only.

Option ENV15 - Designate and protect spaces that represent important gaps and/or provide visual amenity within the urban area and within and adjoining villages that have a defined Settlement Policy Area

Option ENV16 - Designate and protect spaces that represent important gaps and/or provide visual amenity within the urban area and within and adjoining all villages (including those without a defined Settlement Policy Area).


O O O


? Gap could provide flood alleviation




Sites of open space can enhance the character of historic areas



4. Create, conserve, protect and enhance the Borough’s natural features, distinctive local environments, habitats and

Identifying sites will protect character of local environments



183

species 5. Promote sustainable lifestyles, use resources efficiently, maximise recycling and re-use

O O O


O O O


O O O


? Open space could also have a recreational role e.g. dog walking




O O O


O O O


Choice of sites would include public involvement




O O O


O O O


O O O

15. Minimise growth in car usage, reduce the need to travel and promote the shift to more

O O O

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sustainable modes of transport 16. Strong local identity and sense of place

Sites add to the character of the area




O O O

Overall conclusions: The options have positive environmental effects and would add to the character and identity of the area. The option with the widest effect would be ENV16 as this includes the designation of sites in all areas (within and adjoining the urban area, SPA villages and non-SPA villages). Appraisal of options – Recreation / leisure projects Option ENV17 - Only show on the Proposals Map existing recreation / leisure projects (those currently identified in the Local Plan and ones that have planning permission). Option ENV18 - Show on the Proposals Map existing and proposed recreation / leisure projects. The options for this issue relate to whether or not existing and proposed sites should be shown on the Proposals Map. The showing of these sites on the Proposals Map or not does not have any sustainability effects and thus the options do not need to be appraised. Appraisal of options – Biodiversity and geodiversity designations Option ENV19 - Show all sites of importance for biodiversity and geodiversity on the Proposals Map. Option ENV20 - Have a separate map in the document showing sites of importance for biodiversity and geodiversity, either within the written text or in an appendix. Option ENV21 - A combination of the above two options (ie some on the Proposals Map and some within the written text). Option ENV22 - Show sites or areas for the protection, restoration and creation of priority habitats on the Proposals Map. Option ENV23 - Have a separate map in the document showing sites or areas for the protection, restoration or creation of priority habitats, either on a separate plan within the written text or in an appendix.

185

The options for this issue relate to whether or not sites of importance for biodiversity and geodiversity and areas for protection, restoration and enhancement should be shown on the Proposals Map, a separate map or a combination of both. The showing of these sites on the Proposals Map or not does not have any sustainability effects and thus the options do not need to be appraised. Appraisal of options – Biodiversity and geodiversity allocations SA Objectives Option ENV24 - When allocating

development sites, identify any specific biodiversity and geodiversity priorities to protect and enhance the value of the local area.

Option ENV25 - Do not define site specific priorities but rely on a more general development control policy that would apply to all development proposals.


O O


O O


Significant effect on this objective

Significant effect on this objective (policy would need to identify the biodiversity/geodiversity the Borough wishes to create, conserve, protect and enhance)


O O


O O


O O


O O

186


O O


Involvement in identifying priorities

Involvement in policy formulation


O O


O O


O O

16. Strong local identity and sense of place Ensure local natural features are protected and enhanced

Ensure local natural features are protected and enhanced

17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime O O Overall conclusions: The options have the same effects. There are neutral effects upon the economy and society and positive effects upon the environment. Option ENV24 would be effective for allocated sites, but would need to be supported by a development control policy that would be used for non-allocated sites that come forward for development. Option ENV25 relies upon a general policy, but the content or aim of this policy is not stated at present. Suggest this policy relates to the objectives and priorities for the Borough set out in the Biodiversity Action Plan. Appraisal of options – Historic environment SA Objectives Option ENV26 – Designate

Historic Character Areas and/or Historic Environment Opportunity Areas on the Proposals Map supported by

Option ENV27 – Show Historic Character Areas and/or Historic Environment Opportunity Areas in an appendix to the plan with

Option ENV28 – Include historic environment references in allocations for development and/or use a general policy to require the

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explanatory text and policies explanatory text and policies historic environment to be considered as part of development proposals

1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions O O O 2. Reduce the risk of flooding including adapting to the impacts of climate change

? Would depend upon the purpose and wording of the policies

? Would depend upon the purpose and wording of the policies

O


This would be the purpose of the policy




Historic environment can include natural features and the policy could protect these




O O O


O O O


O O O


O O O


O O O


O O O





12. Deliver low carbon buildings, whatever O O O

188

their use 13. Support the borough’s economy and specifically encourage the high value knowledge based industries

O O O

14. Improve the skills of the labour force O O O 15. Minimise growth in car usage, reduce the need to travel and promote the shift to more sustainable modes of transport

O O O

16. Strong local identity and sense of place Would highlight local features

Would highlight local features

Would highlight features on allocated sites, but not on a map base

17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime O O O Overall conclusions: Options ENV26 and ENV27 – The options have similar effects as they both show the information in the plan and both include explanatory text and policies in the plan. Detailed wording of protection policies is not available at this stage so the extent of the effect on the environment is uncertain. Option ENV28 – The option would highlight historic environment issues on allocations and generally also. Detailed wording of protection policies is not available at this stage so the extent of the effect on the environment is uncertain. This option would not show character areas/opportunity areas on a map base, unlike the two other options. Appraisal of options – Community facilities SA Objectives Option C1 - Identify important

community facilities on the Proposals Map and use policy to protect them from redevelopment to other uses.

Option C2 - Rely on a general protection policy (for example similar to Policy LR18 of the Local Plan).

Option C3 - In addition to C1 or C2, allocate sites for additional community facilities, such as medical centres, schools, places of worship or community centres, where needed. (Please provide details, including how they will be provided)

189


O O ? Additional development could add to CO2 emissions


? Redevelopment may reduce or increase flood risk

? Redevelopment may reduce or increase flood risk

? Would depend upon sites chosen


O O ? Would depend upon sites chosen


O O ? Would depend upon sites chosen


Retains existing community resources

Retains existing community resources

? New development could use PDL and use efficient design


Protect community facilities for all

Protect community facilities for all

Provide new community facilities


O O O


Protect medical centres, community facilities etc

Protect medical centres, community facilities etc

Provide new medical centres, community facilities etc


Protect community facilities


Provide community facilities




Provide new community facilities to meet new needs

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Public involvement in identifying important facilities

? Minimal community involvement necessary at plan making stage

Public involvement in identifying their needs


O No development proposed

O No development proposed

New buildings could contribute to this objective


O O O


O O ? New schools could be provided


Protect local facilities minimising the need to travel to services elsewhere

Protect local facilities minimising the need to travel to services elsewhere

Provide local facilities minimising the need to travel to services elsewhere


Community facilities add to sense of place




? Facilities could provide activities for youth and reduce crime



Overall conclusions: Options C1 and C2 – The options have similar effects. There are positive social effects and neutral environmental and economic effects. Option C1 is more positive than C2 as it would allow more community involvement in policy formulation, by asking residents which community facilities are important and should be protected. Option C3 – This option proposes allocating sites for new community facilities. This option would have positive social effects although the effects are uncertain as it is not clear what facilities would be allocated or the likelihood of their delivery. Uncertain environmental effects as the choice of sites would be critical. New development could provide positive effects for delivering low carbon buildings.

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Appraisal of options – Tourism SA Objectives Option C4 - Identify sites for new tourism /

cultural facilities / visitor accommodation (hotels and caravan sites etc)

Option C5 - Do not designate any sites but rely on development control policies that would apply generally

1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions ? Additional development could add to CO2 emissions

? Additional development could add to CO2 emissions


? Would depend upon sites chosen

? Would depend upon proposal sites


? Would depend upon sites chosen and mitigation measures






? Would depend upon sites chosen and design

? Would depend upon sites proposed and design


O O


O O


Could provide leisure facilities

Could provide leisure facilities


? Would depend upon sites locations

? Would depend upon sites locations

10. Meet the needs of a changing population Meet cultural and tourism needs

? Meet cultural and tourism needs (dependent upon proposals)

11. Promote community involvement by all

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groups in society in place shaping Involvement in choosing sites Involvement in consultation on applications 12. Deliver low carbon buildings, whatever their use

Potential to contribute



Facilities will contribute to the economy

Facilities will contribute to the economy

14. Improve the skills of the labour force ? Potential employment opportunities

? Potential employment opportunities


? Depend upon the location of sites

? Depend upon the location of sites

16. Strong local identity and sense of place Potential to contribute


17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime ? Potential to contribute – design considerations

? Potential to contribute – design considerations

Overall conclusions: The options have the same predicted effects. Environmental effects are uncertain as development sites are not known. Economic effects are positive (although size of development(s) will influence the extent of the effect). Social effects are potentially positive although without knowing the detail of proposals the effect cannot be accurately predicted. Option C4 would provide more certainty as the effects can be more accurately predicted, option C5 would maintain uncertainty of effects as it relies upon proposals which could be for any size or type in any location. Appraisal of options – Transport Option T1 - Show the strategic and local transport schemes referred to in the bullet points above on the Proposals Map. Option T2 - In addition to T1, show any or all of – trunk roads / strategic roads, motorists’ facilities, coach parks, lorry parks, car parks, strategic cycle network - existing and improvements, strategic walking routes, bus priority schemes - existing and proposed, Bedford Transport Development Plan safeguarding area.

193

The options for this issue relate to the level of detail that should be shown on the Proposals Map relating to existing and proposed transport routes. The showing of these routes on the Proposals Map or not does not have any sustainability effects and thus the options do not need to be appraised. Appraisal of options – Deciding which villages should have a Settlement Policy Area SA Objectives Option P1 - Identify villages with a built-up

character by reference to a set of guidelines including structure, form and character, services and facilities.

Option P2 - Consider the built-up character of each village and make a judgement as to whether it should have a Settlement Policy Area on a case by case basis and depending on the particular circumstances of the village.


? Giving a village a SPA boundary may lead to infill development which could affect flood risk

? Giving a village a SPA boundary may lead to infill development which could affect flood risk


O O


O O


O O


O O


O O


O O

194


O O


Involve community in the process

Involve community in the process


O O


O O


O O

16. Strong local identity and sense of place ? Giving a village a SPA boundary may lead to infill development will could affect identity and sense of place

? Giving a village a SPA boundary may lead to infill development will could affect identity and sense of place

17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime O O Overall conclusions: The effect of defining Settlement Policy Areas for villages that do not currently have them is that infill development will be possible under policy CP14 of the Core Strategy and Rural Issues Plan (where as those villages without a SPA are classed as countryside where new development occurs only in limited circumstances set out in national policy in PPS7). Infill development could affect the character of a village (in either a positive or negative way). Overall neutral effect, although the process will involve the community in decisions and thus that is a positive effect. Appraisal of options – How to define the urban area boundary SA Objectives Option P3 - Use the urban

area boundary shown on the Local Plan as a starting point, updating it

Option P4 – As for option P3. Additionally redefine the boundary to include adjoining areas of

Option P5 – As for option P3. Additionally remove Settlement Policy Area boundaries from

Option P6 – A combination of options P4 and P5

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to take into account development that has already occurred, is committed or is needed to meet future requirements.

development such as Elstow village (south of A421), Shortstown, Cleat Hill and Salph End and use policy to prevent coalescence and inappropriate development.

Biddenham and Elstow (north of A421), which are currently within the urban area, and use policy to prevent coalescence and inappropriate development.


O O O O


O Future development sites will include mitigation if required.





? Future development sites could affect this objective





? Future development sites could impact on the natural environment





? Future development sites could contribute to this









196






















Community involvement in boundary revision
























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Overall conclusions: Options P3, P4, P5 and P6 – The options all have overall uncertain effects as the urban boundary is to include future development sites (which are unknown at this time and will be chosen with reference to their sustainability effects) and the urban area boundary drawn around them. Options P4 and P6 – There are implications for adding Elstow, Cleat Hill and Salph End into the urban boundary as these areas are currently within the countryside and outside the urban area boundary. As the option includes the use of policy to prevent coalescence and inappropriate development, the implications of adding these areas into the urban area boundary could be covered by policy. Options P5 and P6 – There are limited implications for removing Settlement Policy Areas from Biddenham and Elstow as these areas already within the urban area boundary. As the option includes the use of policy to prevent coalescence and inappropriate development, the implications of adding these areas into the urban area boundary could be covered by policy. Appraisal of options – How to define Settlement Policy Area boundaries SA Objectives Option P7 - Define Settlement Policy Area

boundaries using a set of guidelines (to be the subject of separate consultation).

Option P8 - No set approach to the definition of Settlement Policy Area boundaries, each to be decided on a case by case basis.


? Boundary could take account of flood risk

? Boundary could take account of flood risk


O O


O O

5. Promote sustainable lifestyles, use resources efficiently, maximise recycling and

O O

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re-use 6. Reduce levels of deprivation and exclusion, particularly the elderly and those from disadvantaged backgrounds

O O


? Could include space in the SPA for new dwellings

? Could include space in the SPA for new dwellings


O O


O O

10. Meet the needs of a changing population Could include space in the SPA for new development to meet needs

Could include space in the SPA for new development to meet needs


Would consult upon guidelines and boundaries

Would consult upon boundaries


O O


? Could include space in the SPA for business uses

? Could include space in the SPA for business uses


O O

16. Strong local identity and sense of place O O 17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime O O Overall conclusions: Options P7 and P8 – The options have a mainly neutral effect. Although the effect upon certain potential developments (housing and employment for example) is uncertain as the methodology for defining the boundaries of Settlement Policy Areas (whether using guidelines or on a case by case basis) is not set out in the options. Both options provide an opportunity for community involvement. The effect of amending

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existing SPA boundaries is likely to have lesser effect (depending upon where the boundary is amended and the policies that relate to the built up area). Appraisal of options – Views SA Objectives Option P9 - Show the most

important views from within and into settlements that that should be protected from development on the Proposals Map.

Option P10 - Do not show specific views but rely on a development control policy that would apply generally.

Option P11 – Show the most important views from within and into settlements that should be protected from development on the Proposals Map and have a development control policy that would apply generally


O O


? Views could include built or cultural heritage features

? Views could include built or cultural heritage features (policy wording would be important)

? Views could include built or cultural heritage features (policy wording would be important)


Views of natural features and distinctive local environment would be protected

Views of natural features and distinctive local environment would be protected (policy wording would be important)

Views of natural features and distinctive local environment would be protected (policy wording would be important)


O O O


O O O

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O O O


O O O


O O O

10. Meet the needs of a changing population O O O 11. Promote community involvement by all groups in society in place shaping

Public involvement in identification of views

? Would rely upon consultation on planning applications

? Public involvement in identification of views Would also rely upon consultation on planning applications


O O O


O O O

14. Improve the skills of the labour force O O O 15. Minimise growth in car usage, reduce the need to travel and promote the shift to more sustainable modes of transport

O O O

16. Strong local identity and sense of place Local features protected

Local features protected (depend upon policy wording)

Local features protected (depend upon policy wording)

17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime O O O Overall conclusions: Options P9 and P10 – The options have similar mainly neutral effects. The positive effects are on local identity, protection of features and community involvement. Option P9 provides more certainty as the views would be identified in the plan, where as option P10 relies upon views being identified and protected when planning applications are determined.

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Option P11 – The option is a combination of P9 and P10 and thus provides certainty as the views would be identified in the plan as well as policy protection. Appraisal of options – Selecting sites for development SA Objectives Option S1 – Use the

Council’s draft Site Assessment Methodology

Option S2 – Amend the Council’s draft Site Assessment Methodology (specify how it should be changed on a separate sheet of paper)

Option S3 – Use a different method for selecting development sites (please specify)

1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions Consideration 39 of the methodology

? May not be included in the methodology



Consideration 40 of the methodology












Considerations 3 and 44 of the methodology




Considerations 29-35 of the methodology







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10. Meet the needs of a changing population Consideration 48 of the methodology




Consultation on the methodology











14. Improve the skills of the labour force Considerations 17-23 of the methodology







16. Strong local identity and sense of place Consideration 36 of the methodology



17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime ? Not included in the methodology



Overall conclusions: Option S1 – This option could include reference to measures to reduce water usage and waste (objective 5).

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Options S2 and S3 – These options are not available to assess and thus the effects on the objectives are uncertain. Proposed site assessment methodologies should be assessed against the SA Framework to ensure all sustainability effects are considered.

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Appendix 7 List of policies in the draft Allocations and Designations Plan Allocation policies Policy AD1 Land at Hall End Road, Wootton Land at Hall End Road, Wootton shall be developed for a mix of residential and education uses. Key principles of development include: • Provision for up to 50 dwellings on two hectares located on the eastern part of the site

adjoining the existing village. • At least one hectare of land in close proximity to Wootton Upper School to be reserved for

education use. This to be located in the western part of the site. • Access into the site to be opposite/ in the vicinity of the current school entrance. • Buffer planting and landscaping to assimilate the development into the landscape and

provide separation for the properties on the eastern edge of the site. • Contributions to the Forest of Marston Vale • Improvements to transportation networks, including:

o Improvements to the footway on the eastern side of Hall End Road. o Pedestrian links through the residential part of the site to connect to adjacent

development, including Studley Road. • Any other requirements in accordance with the Council’s policies and strategies. Policy AD2 Land at Old Ford End Road, Queens Park, Bedford Land identified at Old Ford End Road shall be developed for residential use. Key principles of development include:- • Provision of up to 10 dwellings. • Dwellings to be integrated with existing development in terms of size, scale and design. • Assessment of the nature and extent of ground contamination and preparation of a

remediation strategy for the site including methods of disposing of contaminated material, measures to prevent the pollution of surface and ground water and provisions for future monitoring, to be approved by the Council.

• Any other requirements in accordance with the Council’s policies and strategies. Policy AD3 Land at the junction of Windsor Road and Mile Road, Bedford Land at the junction of Windsor Road and Mile road, Bedford shall be developed for a mix of residential and retail uses. • Provision of a mix of dwelling types and sizes • Provision of a small convenience store to provide for essential local needs • Provision of a comprehensive planning brief showing the scale and description of land uses

and satisfactory access and servicing arrangements to be agreed by the Council and relevant land owners. The comprehensive planning brief to be submitted with any planning application should include a master plan.

• Residential and retail capacity to be determined through the planning brief • Provision of landscape buffers along the western and northern boundaries of the site where

the site adjoins existing development • Any other requirements in accordance with the Council’s policies and strategies Policy AD4 Wixams northern expansion Land to the north of Wixams shall be developed for a mix of residential, employment, school and community uses. Conditional upon: • Delivery of the Wixams railway station by 2014, • Commitment to the early release of housing parcels by 2012,

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• Commitment to the completion of village 2 remediation and the release of housing land in village 2 by 2012.

The key principles of development include: • Provision of up to 1050 dwellings • Provision of a site for approximately 80 extra care units • contributions to the provision of 15 pitches for Gypsy and Traveller accommodation • Provision of 5 hectares of B1 employment uses and remodelling of the committed

employment area to the east of the allocation site to create a gateway employment site. An additional 4.5 hectares reserved for future employment use.

• A 2 hectare primary school site and funding including provision for early years. • Contribution to land and buildings for secondary school provision. • On site community provision including village hall or meeting room(s), children’s centre

accommodation possibly in association with but additional to school provision. • The development of the site to be guided by a revised Master Plan, design guide and design

principles, to be agreed by the Council. • Provision of a layout which takes full account of the noise environment relative to the railway

line. • Strategic/integrated approach to surface water management • Contributions to the Forest of Marston Vale • Improvements to transportation networks, including:

o pedestrian and cycle access to the A6 cycle route o contribution towards the provision of traffic lights on A421 junction to facilitate pedestrian

and cycle movement o Contribution to Wixams station o Provision of a route for shuttle buses from the parking area on the A6 to the Nirah site

• Any other requirements in accordance with the Council’s policies and strategies. Policy AD5 Ford End Road Gasworks site, Bedford Land identified at Ford End Road Gasworks site shall be developed for a mix of residential and employment uses. Key principles of development include:- • Provision of up to 200 dwellings • 0.4 hectares of employment provision to be provided as managed workspace and located to

the north west of the Ford End Road link. • Assessment of the nature and extent of ground contamination and preparation of a

remediation strategy for the site including methods of disposing of contaminated material, measures to prevent the pollution of surface and ground water, and provisions for future monitoring, to be approved by the Council.

• Submission of a comprehensive planning brief, to be agreed by the Council and relevant property owners.

• Provision of a layout which takes full account of the noise environment relative to the railway line

• Submission of a site specific Flood Risk Assessment along with appropriate mitigation proposals.

• Retention and enhancement of the land adjacent to the railway to improve biodiversity values

• Improvements to transportation networks, including: o Provision of a cycle and pedestrian link between Route 51 along the riverside and Ford

End Road and provision for the safe crossing of Ford End Road. o Provision of a bus drop off point adjacent to Ford End Road on the eastern side of the

site (in accordance with the Council’s Town Centre Area Action Plan) to include bus shelters and real time information (or equivalent).

o Provision of the Ford End Road link (alternative vehicular access between Havelock Street and Ford End Road)

o Contributions to improvements at the Prebend Street junction • Any other requirements in accordance with the Council’s policies and strategies.

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Policy AD6 Land East of Eastcotts Road, Bedford Land identified east of Eastcotts Road Bedford shall be developed for a mix of residential and employment uses. Key principles of development include: • Provision of up to 50 dwellings to be accessed from Eastcotts Road, • Re-provision of employment floorspace in the form of up to 4 B1 and/or B2 units on part of

the northern section of the site, with access from Arkwright Road (subject to confirmation that satisfactory access can be achieved)

• Delivery of the remainder of the northern part of the site for public open space, with associated landscaping, to secure a buffer between the employment and residential uses within and adjoining the site.

• Dwellings to be integrated with existing development in terms of size and scale • Improvements to transportation networks, including:

o A travel assessment to determine the impact of the development on roundabouts at the junction of Eastcotts Road and Cardington Road and the junction of Eastcotts Road, Harrowden Road and Cambridge Road.

• Any other requirements in accordance with the Council’s policies and strategies. Policy AD7 Dallas Road, Kempston Land identified at Dallas Road shall be developed for residential use. Key principles of development include: • Provision of up to 122 dwellings. • Provision of a layout which take full account of the noise environment relative to the railway

line • Improvements to transportation networks, including:

o Pedestrian links to the bus stops and footways on Bedford Road. o Provision of real time information (or equivalent) at bus stops in the vicinity of the site. o Improvements to Dallas Road and construction of a new road corridor between Dallas

Road and College Street, including all necessary and associated engineering works and landscaping to achieve an adoptable standard.

• Revised access arrangements to the self service car wash • Submission of a comprehensive planning brief, to be agreed by the Council and relevant

property owners. • Any other requirements in accordance with the Council’s policies and strategies Policy AD8 St Bede’s School, Bedford Land and buildings identified at the former St Bede’s School, Bedford shall be developed for residential use. Key principles of development include • Provision of up to 80 dwellings or alternatively the provision of extra care housing for older

people at a higher density. • Retention of open space and trees fronting Bromham Road • Retention of existing buildings of local importance. • On site layout and building design to have regard to existing buildings of local importance

and respect their setting. • Dwellings to be integrated with existing development in terms of size and scale • Site to be accessed from Conduit Road or Conduit Road and The Avenue • Any other requirements in accordance with the Council’s policies and strategies. Policy AD9 Lansdowne Road, Warwick Avenue and Dynevor Road, Bedford Land at Lansdowne Road, Warwick Avenue and Dynevor Road Bedford shall be developed for residential and open space uses. Key principles of development include: • Provision of a mix of dwelling types and sizes potentially including the provision of extra care

housing for older people. • Submission of a comprehensive planning brief to include land at Warwick Avenue and the

former De Montfort university site at Lansdowne Road, the former Bowen west theatre site

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and the former tennis court land parcel at Dynevor Road to be agreed by the Council and relevant land owners.

• Site capacity to be determined through the planning brief. • Delivery and enhancement of public open space on the former tennis court land parcel at

Dynevor Road. • Any other requirements in accordance with the Council’s policies and strategies. Policy AD10 Land at Melbourne Street, Bedford Land at Melbourne Street shall be developed for residential use. Key principles of development include:- • Provision of up to 23 dwellings • Submission of a site specific Flood Risk Assessment along with appropriate mitigation

proposals. • Provision of foot and cycle access from Melbourne Street to St John’s Station. • Provision of a layout which takes full account of the noise environment including adjacent

uses and the near by railway. • Any other requirements in accordance with the Council’s policies and strategies. Policy AD11 Land at Medbury Farm, Elstow Land at Medbury Farm shall be developed for B1 business park use. Key principles of development are: • 31hectares business park • Support for hotel associated with business use. • Design to respect local landscape priorities, with particular regard to retaining and

enhancing views of Elstow Abbey • Delivery of Forest of Marston Vale planting on land south of the A421 (master plan to be

prepared and agreed with Forest of Marston Vale Team). • Provision of a green corridor incorporating a pedestrian and cycle route south of the A421

west/east from the A6 to Bumpy Lane and the A600. • Submission of a site specific Flood Risk Assessment along with mitigation proposals • A Strategic/integrated approach to surface water management • Improvement to transportation networks and specific highway concerns to be addressed.

• Pedestrian and Cycle links required from south of A421 and A6 into Bedford (north/south).

• Detailed information on connection to Northern and Central Gateway roundabouts on the A6

• Details of measures that will be implemented to prevent development related traffic from using village roads in Elstow to access the site

• Contribution towards the provision of traffic lights on A421 junction to facilitate pedestrian and cycle movement

• Assessment of capacity at Cowbridge Roundabout • Any other requirements in accordance with the council’s policies and strategies. Policy AD12 Land at Bell Farm, Kempston Land at Bell Farm shall be developed for a mix of B1 (a)(b) & (c), and B8 uses. Key principles of development are: • Approx 18 hectares employment site • Contribution to Forest of Marston Vale – enhance Bedford’s Green Gateway • Deliver a section of the Bedford to Milton Keynes Waterway Park incorporating cycle and

pedestrian paths (possibly SUSTRANS Route 51) through the site • A Strategic/integrated approach to surface water management • Enhance/strengthen important gap between Bell Farm and Wootton • Design to reflect site topography • Provision of a quality landmark/ gateway building at A421 junction

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• Improvements to transportation networks, including o Pedestrian and cycle access to facilities west of Kempston o Direct left in/left out access to Bedford Western Bypass o Junction design to facilitate dualling of Bedford Western Bypass in the future

• Any other requirements in accordance with the council’s policies and strategies. Policy AD13 Marston Vale Innovation Park Phase 2, Wootton Land adjacent to the Marston Vale Innovation Park shall be developed for a mix of B1 (a) (b) & (c) and B2 uses. Key principles of development are: • 10h hectares employment site • Delivery of a section of the Bedford to Milton Keynes Waterway Park in association with

Phase 1, incorporating cycle and pedestrian paths (possibly SUSTRANS Route 51) • A Strategic/integrated approach to surface water management • Contribution to Forest of Marston Vale • Improvements to transportation networks and specific highway concerns to be addressed

o Information is required to show that the junctions and links created in Phase 1 are of an adequate standard to cater for development of Phase 2, or any subsequent improvements required to meet this standard.

• Any other requirements in accordance with the council’s policies and strategies. Policy AD14 Land at Cardington Cross, Bedford Land at Cardington Cross shall be developed for a mix of B1, B2 and B8 uses. Key principles of development are: • Submission of proposals for an alternative park and ride facility • 7hectares in total (5.5ha already committed) • Submission of a site specific flood risk assessment • Access via the old Cambridge Road only • Hotel to serve business users • Improvements to transportation networks and specific highway concerns to be addressed

o Safe pedestrian access to proposed alternative park and ride site o Improve pedestrian links including access to bus stops on A603 o Assess impact on A5134/Wallis Way/site access roundabout o Assess impact on A5134/A603 roundabout o Assess impact on A603 & A600 grade separated junctions with A421.

• Contribution towards the financing of the alternative park and ride site and new pedestrian/cycle bridge over River Gt. Ouse (Policy AD19 Land North of A603 Cardington Road)

• Any other requirements in accordance with the council’s policies and strategies. Policy AD15 Manton Lane Reservoir Site, Bedford Land at Manton Lane shall be developed for a mix of B2 and B8 uses. Key principles of development are: • 3.25 hectares employment site • Design to link into green access route around north/northwest of the town • Improvements to transportation networks and highway concerns to be addressed.

o Assess impact on Manton Lane/Brickhill Drive signal controlled junction o Assess impact on A6/Clapham Road/A5141 Shakespeare Rd/Manton Lane Roundabout o Investigate possibility of cycleway provision on Manton Lane

• Any other requirements in accordance with the council’s policies and strategies Policy AD16 Land West of Manton Lane, Bedford Land r/o Manton Lane shall be developed for B1(a) (b) & (c) and B2 uses. Key principles of development area: • Development area restricted by ridgeline – estimate about 6 hectares of site can

accommodate development.

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• Landscape enhancement required along ridgeline to screen development. Height of development close to ridgeline restricted to single storey (4.5m max).

• Compensate for loss of hedgerow required to create access. • Improvements to transportation networks and highway concerns to be addressed.

o Create new footway/verge on west side of Manton lane to afford safe pedestrian access to site.

o Provide section of green access route (for pedestrian and cyclists) around north west of town

o Assess impact on Manton Lane/Brickhill Drive signal controlled junction o Assess impact on A6/Clapham Road/A5141 Shakespeare Rd/Manton Lane Roundabout o Investigate possibility of cycleway provision on Manton Lane

• Any other requirements in accordance with the council’s policies and strategies Policy AD17 Land West of the B530, Kempston Land west of the B530 shall be developed for a mix of B1, B2, B8 employment use. Key development principles are • 3.4hectares employment site • Submission of a site specific flood risk assessment • High standard of building design and landscaping to reflect importance of this gateway

location. • Access from the old A421 • Pedestrian links to the Interchange Retail Park • Contribution to Forest of Marston Vale • Any other requirements in accordance with the council’s policies and strategies Policy AD18 Land north of A603 Cardington Road, Bedford Land identified north of A603 Cardington Road shall be developed as a park and ride facility with public transport services to Bedford town centre. Key principles of development include: • landscaping to assimilate the site with its setting adjoining the River Great Ouse and Priory

Country Park; • provision of public access to the rear part of the site adjacent to the river; • improvements to transportation networks, including:

o pedestrian and cycle links to existing routes in Priory Country Park and Priory Business Park, including a new pedestrian and cycle bridge over the River Great Ouse;

o highway works to enable access to A603; • any other requirements in accordance with the council’s policies and strategies. Policy AD19 Land south of Bromham Road, Biddenham Land identified south of Bromham Road shall be developed to provide a place of worship. Key principles of development include: • minimising the visual impact of the development on the gap between Biddenham and

Bromham by careful location within the site and design; • car parking to meet the requirements of the highways authority; • extensive landscaping to assimilate the site into the landscape and details of management

and maintenance arrangements for on-site planting and landscaping • access to be from Bromham Road; • improvements to transportation networks, including provision of a footway along the south

side of Bromham Road; • preparation of a transport assessment and travel plan for the site; • any other requirements in accordance with the council’s policies and strategies. Policy AD20 Land at Cut Throat Lane, Bedford Land at Cut Throat Lane shall be developed to provide a hotel. Key principles of development include:

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• single hotel building in a parkland setting to replace the hotel site approved in the H8 development brief;

• landscape appraisal will guide the location and design of the building; • hotel to come forward in association with the adjacent employment development. If brought

forward ahead of the employment development, an assessment will be required to determine impact on the delivery of sequentially preferable town centre hotel commitments;

• financial contribution towards the delivery of the western bypass; • financial contribution towards the park and ride site; • financial contribution towards the proposed country park; • preparation of a transport assessment and travel plan for the site; • any other requirements in accordance with the council’s policies and strategies. Policy AD21 Land at Bedford Road, Great Barford Land identified at Bedford Road, Great Barford shall be developed for a primary care facility and residential use. Key principles of the development include: • Provision of approximately 50 residential units • Land to provide a site for a primary care facility of approximately 0.4 hectares, on the

frontage to Bedford Rd together with a financial contribution towards the primary care facility.

• Improvements to transportation networks, including: o New footway on Bedford Rd. o Provision for a potential pedestrian link to Silver Street o School bus and drop off parking if considered desirable o New junction with right turn lane o Improvements to pedestrian and cycle networks including crossing of Bedford Rd,

• Preparation of a transport assessment and travel plan for the site • Any other requirements in accordance with the council’s policies and strategies

Policy AD22 Land at The Lakes, Roxton Road, Wyboston – Holiday Fishing Village Land identified at The Lakes, Wyboston shall be developed for a holiday fishing village. Key principles of the development include: • Provision of up to eight single storey chalets of a design sensitive to the rural character of

the site • A single café/fishing tackle shop of a size commensurate with the scale of development

proposed. • Retention of trees on the lake edge together with provision of additional landscaping • Chalets, pedestrian accesses and fishing piers to have level access, to facilitate use by the

disabled • Access to be provided from Roxton Road to meet visibility standards and speed reduction

measures on Roxton Road as appropriate. • Any other requirements in accordance with the council’s policies and strategies Policy AD23 Land north of 17-22 Peach's Close, Harrold Land identified north of 17-22 Peach's Close, Harrold shall be developed for affordable housing. Key principles of development include: • Provision of up to 6-8 dwellings • Tree survey, condition report and method statement for works to secure retention of the

mature trees and to address the issue of the access and its impact upon the roots and canopies of the trees

• Improvement of the adjacent play area • Site specific Flood Risk Assessment with appropriate mitigation proposals, to be agreed by

Council. • Re-provision of parking lost due to the site access from Peaches Close • Any other requirements in accordance with the council’s policies and strategies

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Policy AD24 Land north of Ravensden Road, Salph End, Renhold Land identified north of Ravensden Road, Renhold shall be developed for affordable housing. Key principles of development include: Provision of two dwellings. • Dwellings to relate to existing development in terms of size and scale. • Existing road access from Abbey Close to be utilised for the new dwellings if highway

standards can be met or other suitable alternative agreed. • Any other requirements in accordance with the council’s policies and strategies Policy AD25 Land off Church Rd, Willington Land identified off Church Road, Willington shall be developed for a mix of recreational holiday lodges and education use. Key principles of the development include: • An ecological survey to be carried out to inform an assessment of the number of

recreational holiday lodges the land can support. • Ecological Management Plan with appropriate ecological mitigation measures to protect

ecological values on the land. This may include ownership/management arrangements. • Provision of a limited number of small single storey holiday lodges of a design appropriate to

a rural area and with the remainder of the area remaining largely undeveloped. • Land to provide an extension to the Willington school site – extent of site extension to be

defined subsequent to the ecological survey. • Any facilities identified as needed for the Bedford to Sandy (Sustrans Route 51) cycleway –

e.g signing, rest place with seating, investigate opportunities for public access. • Provision of a satisfactory safe access to the site • Any other requirements in accordance with the council’s policies and strategies Policy AD26 Land at Manton Lane, Bedford Land at Manton Lane shall be developed for Travelling Showperson use. Key principles of development are: • Development to avoid overhead powerline constraint. • Buildings restricted to 1 storey in height (4.5m) to reduce impact. • Landscape enhancement required along ridgeline (on and off site). • Improvements to pedestrian access and cycle network. • Public transport improvements. Policy AD27 Road Schemes The Borough Council supports improvements to the local highway network including the St Johns Area Relief Scheme, the Ford End Road link and the Dallas Road link. Policy AD28 Pedestrian Routes The Borough Council will require the protection, enhancement and promotion of pedestrian routes and facilities. The Borough Council will seek the provision of new pedestrian routes and facilities which are safe, convenient, attractive, and which link local facilities, particularly in association with major development and transportation proposals. The provision of routes which form part of the Green Wheel, include safer routes to schools and include new river crossings at Honey Hill Road / Hillgrounds, adjacent to Britannia Ironworks, at Batts Ford and in the vicinity of Fenlake Meadows / Priory Park will be sought. Policy AD29 Park and Ride Facilities The Council will seek the provision of high quality car parking facilities at park and ride sites for long stay users as indicated on the Proposals Map. Where possible the provision of such facilities will be in association with public transport priority measures and busways. In appropriate cases the provision of sites and developer funding towards the cost of park and ride facilities and services will be sought.

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Policy AD30 Commercial Vehicle Parking and Motorist Facilities The Borough Council will determine any planning applications for commercial vehicle parking facilities and motorists facilities against the following criteria: i) the impact of the proposal on residential amenities; ii) the safety and convenience of the proposed access arrangements; iii) the effect of the proposals on the environment; iv) the quality of the proposed design and landscaping; v) the degree of need; and vi) site availability and location in close proximity to the strategic network. Designation policies Policy AD31 Green Infrastructure Opportunity Zones The green infrastructure network is divided into six opportunity zones (see Figure 1 above). The opportunity zones reflect those areas in the borough where there is the greatest potential to maintain and enhance the multifunctional nature of green infrastructure across the five themes of landscape, historic environment, biodiversity, accessible green space and access routes. Where appropriate, development will deliver or contribute to the protection, enhancement and/or creation of green infrastructure in accordance with the priorities set out for each opportunity zone (priorities to be set out in the Allocations and Designations Plan and found at Appendix 1 to this chapter). Policy AD32 Bedford River Valley Park When development opportunities arise within the area shown on the Proposals Map, the borough council will seek the creation of the Bedford River Valley Park as an area where opportunities exist for landscape enhancement, nature conservation, recreation and increased public access in accordance with the Framework Plan. Policy AD33 Forest of Marston Vale In appropriate circumstances (and within the area designated on the Proposals Map) the council will expect proposals to address the aims of the project as set out in the Forest Plan 2000 and seek contributions towards its implementation, including the 30% woodland cover target. Policy AD34 Bedford to Milton Keynes Waterway Park The borough council will support the creation of the Bedford to Milton Keynes Waterway Park as a strategic green infrastructure link benefitting the borough as a whole, but particularly important to the delivery of sustainable growth in the Northern Marston Vale. The route of the Waterway Park is shown on Map 2. Where appropriate, development will be expected to contribute towards the creation and delivery of the Waterway Park Policy AD35 Provision of Open Space and Built Facilities in association with new development Where new housing development is of a type likely to create a demand, the borough council will require provision of open space and built facilities in accordance with the standards in the following table. Where possible, provision should be made on-site. Where this is not possible, practical or preferred, a financial contribution in lieu of on-site provision will be required. Such contributions will be secured through planning obligations and will fund improvements to existing facilities or will be pooled to provide new facilities. Planning obligations will also be used to secure a contribution towards the cost of future management and maintenance. Policy AD36 District Centre – new retail facilities Proposals for new retail facilities within the district centre will be supported if: • new development would enhance the appearance of the district centre;

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• new development will be of a scale and form which is appropriate to the convenience and service function of the district centre;

• the applicant can demonstrate that the scale and form of the development proposed and its function could not be more appropriately accommodated within Bedford town centre;

• the applicant can demonstrate that the proposals would not have an adverse impact on Bedford town centre ;

• satisfactory servicing and car parking facilities can be provided to avoid on street congestion and to protect highway safety; and

• the proposal will be accessible by a choice of means of transport other than the private car. Policy AD37 District Centre – changes of use In the designated district centre, the council will only grant planning permission for the change of use from retail sales to other uses where: • the applicant can demonstrate to the satisfaction of the council that the vitality and viability

of the centre would not be adversely affected; • the applicant can demonstrate to the satisfaction of the council that the proposed change of

use will sustain and enhance the vitality and viability of the centre so that it can offer a range of everyday community, shopping and employment opportunities;

• the change of use will not lead to a reduction in the diversity of uses whether individually or cumulatively with other recent or permitted developments; and

• the change of use would not have a detrimental impact upon issues such as traffic, parking, and local residential amenity.

Policy AD38 Local centres – new retail facilities Proposals for new small shops within existing local centres or in existing or proposed new residential areas where there is a local need will be supported if: • the proposal is of a scale appropriate to the role and function of the local centre and is

intended to principally serve the needs of the local community; • the proposal will not have an adverse impact on residential amenity, and is acceptable on

highway and environmental grounds; and, • satisfactory servicing, cycling and car parking facilities can be provided. Policy AD39 Key Service Centres (applies both in the Growth Area and Rural Policy Area) In Key Service Centres, the council will only grant planning permission for the change of use of essential local shops to other uses when: • alternative essential local shops are available within the centre so that at least three different

essential local shop types remain available; • the applicant can demonstrate to the satisfaction of the council that the current (or last) use

is no longer economically viable (including in appropriate circumstances financial information) and that the property has been actively marketed for a minimum of 12 months at a realistic price and terms; and

• the applicant can demonstrate to the satisfaction of the council that the vitality and viability of the centre would not be adversely affected.

Policy AD40 Other Growth Area Local Centres Within Other Growth Area Local Centres designated on the Proposals Map, the council will only grant planning permission for the change of use of essential local shops to other uses when: • alternative essential local shops are available within the centre so that at least three different

essential local shop types remain available; • the applicant can demonstrate to the satisfaction of the council that the current (or last) use



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Policy AD41 Other Defined Retail Centres In Other Defined Retail Centres, the council will only grant planning permission for the change of use of essential local shops to other uses when: • alternative essential local shops are available within the centre so that at least one essential

local shop type remains available; • the applicant can demonstrate to the satisfaction of the council that the current (or last) use



Policy AD42 Individual Shops and Undefined Retail Centres The council will only grant planning permission for the change of use of individual essential local shops (not within a defined centre) to other uses when: • there are other essential local shops within 10 minutes walking time (half a mile) providing a

similar service; and • the applicant can demonstrate to the satisfaction of the council that the current (or last) use

is no longer economically viable (including in appropriate circumstances financial information) and that the property has been actively marketed for a minimum of 12 months at a realistic price and terms.

Policy AD43 All Shop Units The council will only grant planning permission for the change of use of a shop unit within Classes A1 to A5 of the Town and Country Planning (Use Classes) Order 1987 (as subsequently amended) to a use outside of these Classes when, in the council’s opinion, there is no under-provision of local shopping facilities in that area, taking account of the role and function of the shop unit or centre in the retail hierarchy. Policy AD44 Cycling The Borough Council will require the protection, enhancement and promotion of cycle routes and facilities including those shown on the Proposals Map, and seek the provision of new routes and facilities for cyclists which are safe, convenient and attractive, particularly in association with major development and transportation proposals. River crossings will include provision for cyclists where appropriate. Policy AD45 Village Open Spaces and Views Development will not be permitted on land designated as a village open space or view as shown on the Proposals Map. Open spaces have been identified as village open spaces / views where they meet one or more of the following criteria: A. they are publicly accessible and valuable to the local community for sport, recreation or as

amenity space; B. they give identity to a settlement or village by helping to retain its form and reflect past

history (examples include village greens); C. they provide a gap or break in the frontage which contributes to the character of a

settlement for example by providing a view into a village which forms part of the village setting, or a view into open countryside establishing the relationship between the form of the village and the countryside beyond;

D. the gap provides visual relief in an otherwise built up area punctuating the street scene; E. the open space assists the transition between village and countryside providing a soft edge

to the village which is pleasing visually. Policy AD46 Urban area boundary The council seeks to protect the character of Bedford and Kempston, and to protect the countryside from inappropriate development by defining on the Proposals Map the extent of the

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urban area which marks an outer limit to its expansion. The urban area boundary distinguishes where policies relevant to built-up areas apply and where policies relevant to the countryside apply. Policy AD47 Urban Open Spaces and Gaps Urban open spaces and gaps have particular importance in maintaining the function, character and identity of an area. They are identified on the Proposals Map. Development will not be permitted in identified urban open spaces where it would result in the loss of or adversely affect one or more of the following: • An equipped play area, playing field or other sports facilities; • A park, garden or other amenity space • Allotment/community garden space or a cemetery/churchyard • A Local Nature Reserve, County Wildlife Site or Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) • Landscaping that contributes to streetscape or character of an area • A buffer between different land uses • A green break in an otherwise built up area • A visual break to safeguard local distinctiveness (including views) • Part of the overall network of green spaces and links The council will seek in association with development, the provision of new and/or the enhancement of existing open space. Development will not be permitted in identified gaps Policy AD48 Local Gaps Areas which have particular importance as a local gap are identified on the Proposals Map. Development will not be permitted in or adjoining a local gap which, because of the nature of the proposal: • diminishes the gap physically or visually; or • changes its character adversely; or • compromises the integrity of the gap, either individually or cumulatively with other existing or

proposed development; or • harms the character, setting or identity of any settlements separated by the gap. Proposers of development in or adjoining a local gap will be expected to demonstrate to the satisfaction of the local planning authority that their proposal does not conflict with the objectives of this policy. Policy AD49 Former Land Settlement Association Area Within the former Land Settlement Association Area defined on the Proposals Map, development will only be permitted where applications: • maintain the distinctive spatial pattern, layout and scale of plots; • respect the style, scale, appearance and orientation of the original dwellings and separation

between them; • protect residential amenity from inappropriate disturbance; and • do not result in unacceptable levels of traffic generation Addendum in relation to climate change policy Option CC1 This option would expect new homes in the borough to achieve at least Code level 4. The background paper notes that there is a significant increase in costs above this level of the Code due to the need to restrict water use. Homes built with Homes and Communities Agency funding are already expected to achieve Code level 4, therefore the policy would ensure that all tenures will target the same standards. The option would require non-domestic developments to achieve BREEAM “very good” standard.

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Option CC2 This option would expect new homes in the borough to achieve at least Code level 4, but additionally to aim for carbon neutrality. This avoids the significant additional costs associated with achieving higher levels of the Code while still achieving the highest possible reduction in carbon emissions. It is recognised that it may not always be feasible to achieve carbon neutrality on-site and so, in such cases, developers would be required to contribute to a Carbon Offset Fund. This Fund would be used by the council to facilitate off-site renewable energy schemes, improvements to the existing housing stock to reduce carbon emissions and tree planting, resulting in substantial benefits to the borough. The level of payment and further guidance on achieving zero carbon would be set out in a supplementary planning document. This option would require non-domestic developments to achieve BREEAM “excellent” standard.

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Appendix 8 Sustainability appraisal of sites proposed for allocation in the Draft Plan (Excludes the four site specific infrastructure policies AD27 – AD30) The complete document, the Sustainability Appraisal of Sites, is published as a separate background document to the Plan. This appraises all the sites that were put forward by landowners and developers for consideration by the council. (Note that the appraisal document has been updated as additional information and sites have been submitted and assessed – see Appendix 11 for the updated appraisal.) The appraisal undertaken at the time that the Draft Plan was published is set out in this appendix. Policy AD1 Land at Hall End Road Wootton Policy AD2 Land at Old Ford End Road, Queens Park, Bedford Policy AD3 Land at the junction of Windsor Road and Mile Road, Bedford Policy AD4 Wixams northern expansion Policy AD5 Ford End Road Gasworks site, Bedford Policy AD6 Land East of Eastcotts Road, Bedford Policy AD7 Dallas Road, Kempston Policy AD8 St Bede’s School, Bedford Policy AD9 Lansdowne Road, Warwick Avenue and Dynevor Road, Bedford Policy AD10 Land at Melbourne Street Bedford Policy AD11 Land at Medbury Farm, Elstow Policy AD12 Land at Bell Farm, Kempston Policy AD13 Marston Vale Innovation Park Phase 2, Wootton Policy AD14 Land at Cardington Cross, Bedford Policy AD15 Manton Lane Reservoir Site, Bedford Policy AD16 Land West of Manton Lane, Bedford Policy AD17 Land West of the B530, Kempston Policy AD18 Land north of A603 Cardington Road, Bedford Policy AD19 Land south of Bromham Road, Biddenham Policy AD20 Land at Cut Throat Lane, Bedford Policy AD21 Land at Bedford Road, Great Barford Policy AD22 Land at The Lakes, Roxton Road, Wyboston Policy AD23 Land north of 17-22 Peach's Close, Harrold Policy AD24 Land north of Ravensden Road, Salph End, Renhold Policy AD25 Land off Church Rd, Willington Policy AD26 Land at Manton Lane Key to appraisal effects:

Symbol Likely effect against the SA objective +++ Strong and significant beneficial impact ++ Potentially significant beneficial impact + Site supports this objective although it may have only a minor beneficial

impact ~ Site has no impact or effect is neutral insofar as the benefits and

drawbacks appear equal and neither is considered significant ? Uncertain or insufficient information on which to base the assessment at

this stage X Site appears to conflict with the objective and may result in adverse

impacts XX Potentially significant adverse impact

XXX Strong and significant adverse impact

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POLICY AD1 Site Number … 44 Address Land at Hall End Road, Wootton Location Extension to a growth area key service centre Proposal Housing (Up to 125 @ 14 per net acre) SA Objectives Assessment Comments 1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions x Local services and facilities not within walking distance; Good

frequency of public transport 2. Reduce the risk of flooding including adapting to the impacts of climate change

~ Flood Risk Zone 1


x Land not previously developed






x Local services and facilities not within walking distance; Good frequency of public transport


++ Development likely to include affordable housing


~


~

10. Meet the needs of a changing population x Local services and facilities not within walking distance; Good frequency of public transport


~

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12. Deliver low carbon buildings, whatever their use + 13. Support the borough’s economy and specifically encourage the high value knowledge based industries

~

14. Improve the skills of the labour force ~ 15. Minimise growth in car usage, reduce the need to travel and promote the shift to more sustainable modes of transport

xxx Distance to town centre services, facilities and cultural opportunities, and public transport hubs; Local services and facilities not within walking distance; Good frequency of public transport

16. Strong local identity and sense of place x Scale of development significant relative to existing settlement 17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime ~ Summary of assessment Positive effect where scale of development should provide a housing mix. Negative effects due to use of greenfield land. Negative effects due to increase in vehicle movements and impact on transport poor. Summary of mitigation proposals Significant improvement in public transport may mitigate number of private trips. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No secondary or cumulative effects. Synergistic effects on transport network. POLICY AD2 Site Number … 376 Address 2 Old Ford End Road, Bedford Location Within the existing urban area or a growth area key service centre Proposal Housing (14 units/55 units per hectare) SA Objectives Assessment Comments 1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions +++ Proximity to Bedford town centre services, facilities and cultural

220

opportunities, and public transport hubs; Local services and facilities within walking distance; Good frequency of public transport


~ Flood Risk Zone 1


+ Land previously developed






+++ Proximity to Bedford town centre services, facilities and cultural opportunities, and public transport hubs; Local services and facilities within walking distance; Good frequency of public transport


+


++ Proximity to Bedford town centre services, facilities and cultural opportunities, and public transport hubs



10. Meet the needs of a changing population +++ Proximity to Bedford town centre services, facilities and cultural opportunities, and public transport hubs; Local services and facilities within walking distance; Good frequency of public transport


++ Proximity to Bedford town centre services, facilities and cultural opportunities, and public transport hubs; Site easily incorporated into existing settlement pattern


~


+++ Proximity to town centre services, facilities and cultural opportunities, and public transport hubs; Local services and facilities within walking distance; Good frequency of public

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transport 16. Strong local identity and sense of place + Site easily incorporated into existing settlement pattern 17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime + Use of derelict/underutilised land in the urban area Summary of assessment Positive effects due to use of brownfield land, where development coherent with the existing built environment and where use of derelict/underutilised land may strengthen communities and reduce fear of crime. Positive effects due to local walkability and public transport levels of service, and distances may reduce need for private vehicle movements. Positive effects where future communities have good access to existing communities, social infrastructure and a range of recreation. Summary of mitigation proposals N/A Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No effects POLICY AD3 Site Number … 82 Address Windsor Road/Mile Road Junction, Bedford Location Within the existing urban area or a growth area key service centre Proposal Mixed Use; Housing (28 Flats); Retail (5,500 sq.ft gross / 4,500 sq.ft net) SA Objectives Assessment Comments 1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions ++ Proximity to town centre services, facilities and cultural

opportunities, and public transport hubs; Limited local services and facilities within walking distance; Good frequency of public transport


~ Flood Risk Zone 1



222






++ Proximity to town centre services, facilities and cultural opportunities, and public transport hubs; Limited local services and facilities within walking distance; Good frequency of public transport


++ Likely to include affordable housing


++ Proximity to Bedford town centre services, facilities and cultural opportunities, and public transport pubs;


++ Proximity to Bedford town centre services, facilities and cultural opportunities, and public transport pubs;

10. Meet the needs of a changing population ++ Proximity to Bedford town centre services, facilities and cultural opportunities, and public transport pubs; Limited local services and facilities within walking distance; Good frequency of public transport


~

12. Deliver low carbon buildings, whatever their use + Buildings to include renewable technology. 13. Support the borough’s economy and specifically encourage the high value knowledge based industries

? Subject to scale and scope of employment generated, and loss of employment with change of land use

14. Improve the skills of the labour force ? Subject to scale and scope of employment generated, and loss of employment with change of land use


++ Proximity to town centre services, facilities and cultural opportunities, and public transport pubs; Limited local services and facilities within walking distance; Good frequency of public transport

16. Strong local identity and sense of place ~ 17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime ~ Summary of assessment Positive effects due to use of brownfield land. Positive effects where future communities have good access to existing communities, social infrastructure and a range of recreation. Positive effects where distances may reduce need for private vehicle movements. Positive effect where scale of development should provide a housing mix.

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Summary of mitigation proposals N/A Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No effects POLICY AD4 Site Number … 191 Address Northern Expansion Area, Wixams Location Other location in the growth area Proposal Housing (approx. 1,400 dwellings @ av. density of 47 dph); Employment (35,000sqm to 52,000sqm business park); Retailing; Hotel; Recreation/Leisure; Mixed use SA Objectives Assessment Comments 1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions ? Subject to completion of proposed new town centre services

and facilities, and railway station 2. Reduce the risk of flooding including adapting to the impacts of climate change

~ Flood Risk Zone 1








? Subject to completion of proposed new town centre services and facilities, and railway station



224


?



10. Meet the needs of a changing population ? Subject to completion of proposed new town centre services and facilities, and railway station


~


+ Future employment opportunity with proposed land use; Subject to scale and scope of employment generated

14. Improve the skills of the labour force ? Subject to scope and scale of employment generated 15. Minimise growth in car usage, reduce the need to travel and promote the shift to more sustainable modes of transport


16. Strong local identity and sense of place ~ 17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime ~ Summary of assessment Positive effect where scale of development should provide a housing mix and potential for local employment. Negative effect due to use of greenfield land. Unknown effect on vehicle movements and transport poor. Summary of mitigation proposals N/A Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No secondary. Positive cumulative effects on new town proposal. Possible synergistic effects on transport network. POLICY AD5 Site Number …60 Address Land at Ford End Road, Bedford Location Within the existing urban area or a growth area key service centre

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Proposal Housing (approx 220 units at 45 dph) SA Objectives Assessment Comments 1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions +++ Proximity to town centre services and facilities, and public

transport hubs; Local services and facilities within walking distance; Good frequency of public transport


x Flood Risk Zone 2


+ Land previously developed; Existing Tree Protection Orders


+ Land previously developed; Subject to biodiversity values


++ Land previously developed; Active use of derelict/underutilised land in the urban area


+++ Local services and facilities within walking distance; Good frequency of public transport


++ Affordable housing likely to be included


++ Proximity to town centre services, facilities and cultural opportunities, and public transport hubs



10. Meet the needs of a changing population +++ Proximity to town centre services, facilities and cultural opportunities, and public transport hubs; Local services and facilities within walking distance; Good frequency of public transport


+++ Proximity to town centre services, facilities and cultural opportunities, and public transport hubs; Site easily incorporated into existing settlement

12. Deliver low carbon buildings, whatever their use + Buildings to include renewable technology 13. Support the borough’s economy and specifically encourage the high value knowledge based industries

~

14. Improve the skills of the labour force ~

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+++ Proximity to town centre services and facilities, and public transport hubs; Local services and facilities within walking distance; Good frequency of public transport

16. Strong local identity and sense of place + Site easily incorporated into existing settlement 17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime ++ Active use of derelict/underutilised land in the urban area Summary of assessment Positive effects due to use of brownfield land and where use of derelict/underutilised land may strengthen communities and reduce fear of crime. Positive effects where future communities have good access to existing communities, social infrastructure and a range of recreation. Positive effects due to local walkability and public transport levels of service, and distances may reduce need for private vehicle movements. Summary of mitigation proposals Flood Risk Assessment needed to determine possible mitigation. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No effects. POLICY AD6 Site Number …68 Address Land rear of Eastcotts Road, Bedford Location Within the existing urban area or a growth area key service centre Proposal Housing (up to 130 units at 30-35 dph) SA Objectives Assessment Comments 1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions +++ Proximity to town centre services, facilities and cultural


2. Reduce the risk of flooding including adapting to the ~ Flood Risk Zone 1

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impacts of climate change 3. Protect and enhance the built historic features and cultural heritage of the Borough







+++ Proximity to town centre services, facilities and cultural opportunities, and public transport hubs; Limited local services and facilities within walking distance; Good frequency of public transport; Site easily incorporated into existing settlement pattern




++ Proximity to Bedford town centre services, facilities and cultural opportunities, and public transport hubs;



10. Meet the needs of a changing population +++ Proximity to town centre services, facilities and cultural opportunities, and public transport hubs; Limited local services and facilities within walking distance; Good frequency of public transport


+++ Proximity to Bedford town centre services, facilities and cultural opportunities, and public transport hubs; Site easily incorporated into existing settlement pattern


x Loss of employment with proposed land use change


+++ Proximity to town centre services, facilities and cultural opportunities, and public transport hubs; Limited services and facilities within walking distance; Good frequent of public transport;

16. Strong local identity and sense of place + Site easily incorporated into existing settlement pattern 17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime ++ Active use of derelict/underutilised land in urban area

228

Summary of assessment Positive effect where scale of development should provide a housing mix. Positive effects due to use of brownfield land. Positive effects due to local walkability and public transport levels of service, and distances may reduce need for private vehicle movements. Positive effects where future communities have good access to existing communities, social infrastructure and a range of recreation. Negative effect where employment activity lost. Summary of mitigation proposals N/A. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No effects. POLICY AD7 Site Number … 83 Address Dallas Road, Kempston Location Within the existing urban area or a growth area key service centre Proposal Housing (up to 150 @ 50 dph) SA Objectives Assessment Comments 1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions +++ Proximity to town centre services, facilities and cultural



x Flood Risk Zone 2


+ Previously developed land



5. Promote sustainable lifestyles, use resources efficiently, + Previously developed land

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maximise recycling and re-use 6. Reduce levels of deprivation and exclusion, particularly the elderly and those from disadvantaged backgrounds












~



16. Strong local identity and sense of place + Site easily incorporated into existing settlement pattern 17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime ++ Active use of derelict/underutilised land in the urban area Summary of assessment Positive effect where scale of development should provide a housing mix. Positive effects due to local walkability and public transport levels of service, and distances may reduce need for private vehicle movements. Positive effects due to use of brownfield land and where use of derelict/underutilised land may strengthen communities and reduce fear of crime. Positive effects where future communities have good access to existing communities, social infrastructure and a range of recreation. Negative effect due to flood risk. Summary of mitigation proposals Flood Risk Assessment needed to determine possible mitigation.

230

Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No effects. POLICY AD8 Site Number …A007 Address Former St Bede’s School, Bromham Road, Bedford Location Within the existing urban area or a growth area key service centre Proposal Housing SA Objectives Assessment Comments 1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions ++ Proximity town centre services, facilities and cultural

opportunities, and public transport hubs; Local services and facilities not within walking distance; Good frequency of public transport


~ Flood Risk Zone 1








++ Proximity to Bedford town centre services, facilities and cultural opportunities, and public transport hubs; Local services and facilities not within walking distance; Good frequency of public transport


++ Development likely to include affordable housing and/or extra care housing

231





10. Meet the needs of a changing population ++ Proximity to town centre services, facilities and cultural opportunities, and public transport hubs; Local services and facilities not within walking distance; Good frequency of public transport


+ Site easily incorporated into existing settlement pattern


~


++ Proximity to town centre services, facilities and cultural opportunities, and public transport hubs; Local services and facilities not within walking distance; Good frequency of public transport

16. Strong local identity and sense of place + Site easily incorporated into existing settlement pattern 17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime ~ Summary of assessment Positive effect where scale of development should provide a housing mix. Positive effects where future communities have good access to existing communities, social infrastructure and a range of recreation. Positive effects where distances may reduce need for private vehicle movements. Positive effect due to use of brownfield land and where development coherent with the existing built environment. Summary of mitigation proposals N/A Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No effects. POLICY AD9 Site Number …72, 73, 74

232

Address Lansdowne Road, Bedford Location Within the existing urban area or a growth area key service centre Proposal Housing (220 – 240 dwellings at 100 dph) SA Objectives Assessment Comments 1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions ++ Proximity to town centre services, facilities and cultural



~ Flood Risk Zone 1


+ Land previously developed; Proximity to Conservation Area


+ Land previously developed; Subject to assessment of biodiversity values




++ Proximity to town centre services, facilities and cultural opportunities, and public transport hubs; Limited local services and facilities within walking distance; Good frequency of public transport







10. Meet the needs of a changing population ++ Proximity to town centre services, facilities and cultural opportunities, and public transport hubs; Limited local services and facilities within walking distance; Good frequency of public

233

transport 11. Promote community involvement by all groups in society in place shaping

+++ Proximity to town centre services and facilities, and public transport hubs; Site easily incorporated into existing settlement pattern

12. Deliver low carbon buildings, whatever their use + Development/buildings likely to include renewable technology 13. Support the borough’s economy and specifically encourage the high value knowledge based industries

~


++ Limited local services and facilities within walking distance; Good frequency of public transport; Proximity to town centre services, facilities and cultural opportunities, and public transport hubs

16. Strong local identity and sense of place + Site easily incorporated into existing settlement pattern 17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime ++ Use of derelict/underutilised land in the urban area Summary of assessment Positive effects due to local walkability and public transport levels of service, and distances may reduce need for private vehicle movements. Positive effects due to use of a brownfield land and where use of derelict/underutilised land may strengthen communities and reduce fear of crime. Positive effect where development should provide a housing mix. Positive effects where future communities have good access to existing communities, social infrastructure and a range of recreation. Summary of mitigation proposals Any future development must have particular regard to character of Conservation Area Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No effects POLICY AD10 Site Number …76 Address Melbourne Street Car Park, Bedford Location Within the existing urban area or a growth area key service centre Proposal Housing (23 dwellings at 40 dph)

234

SA Objectives Assessment Comments 1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions ++ Proximity to town centre services, facilities and cultural



x Flood Risk Zone 2








++ Proximity to Bedford town centre services, facilities and cultural opportunities, and public transport hubs; Limited local services and facilities within walking distance; Good frequency of public transport







10. Meet the needs of a changing population ++ Proximity to Bedford town centre services, facilities and cultural opportunities, and public transport hubs; Limited local services and facilities within walking distance; Good frequency of public transport



12. Deliver low carbon buildings, whatever their use + Buildings to include energy saving technology 13. Support the borough’s economy and specifically encourage the high value knowledge based industries

~

14. Improve the skills of the labour force ~

235



16. Strong local identity and sense of place + Site easily incorporated into existing settlement pattern 17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime ++ Active use of derelict/underutilised land in the urban area Summary of assessment Positive effect where scale of development should provide a housing mix. Positive effects due to local walkability and public transport levels of service, and distances may reduce need for private vehicle movements. Positive effects due to use of brownfield land and where use of derelict/underutilised land may strengthen communities and reduce fear of crime. Positive effects where future communities have good access to existing communities, social infrastructure and a range of recreation. Negative effect due to flood risk. Summary of mitigation proposals Flood Risk Assessment needed to determine possible mitigation. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No effects. POLICY AD11 Site Number … 150, 151, 152 Address Land at Medbury Farm, south A421, Elstow Location Extension to the urban area Proposal Employment (B1 - 225,000m²/2,400,000 sq ft); Recreation/Leisure SA Objectives Assessment Comments 1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions x Not within walking distance of local services and facilities;

Good frequency of public transport 2. Reduce the risk of flooding including adapting to the impacts of climate change

xx Flood Risk Zone 2 & 3

3. Protect and enhance the built historic features and cultural x Land not previously developed

236

heritage of the Borough 4. Create, conserve, protect and enhance the Borough’s natural features, distinctive local environments, habitats and species





x Not within walking distance of local services and facilities; Good frequency of public transport


~


? Subject to provision of recreation/leisure


~

10. Meet the needs of a changing population x Not within walking distance of local services and facilities; Good frequency of public transport


~


x Future employment opportunities with proposed land use; Subject to the scope and scale of employment generated; Concentration of commercial activity away from town centre

14. Improve the skills of the labour force ? Subject to the scope and scale of employment generated 15. Minimise growth in car usage, reduce the need to travel and promote the shift to more sustainable modes of transport

xxx Distance to town centre services, facilities and cultural opportunities, and public transport hubs; Not within walking distance of local services and facilities; Good frequency of public transport

16. Strong local identity and sense of place ~ 17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime ~ Summary of assessment Some positive effects due to potential for local employment but negative effect where business use proposed outside Bedford town centre. Negative effects due to use of greenfield land and flood risk. Negative effects due to increase in vehicle movements and impact on transport poor. Summary of mitigation proposals Significant improvement in public transport may mitigate number of private trips. Flood Risk Assessment needed to determine possible

237

mitigation. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects Negative cumulative effects on village/urban edge and Bedford town centre. No secondary or synergistic effects. POLICY AD12 Site Number … 176 Address Land at Bell Farm, Kempston Rural Location Extension to the urban area Proposal Employment; Recreation/Leisure; Hotel SA Objectives Assessment Comments 1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions xxx Not within walking distance of local services and facilities; No

public transport 2. Reduce the risk of flooding including adapting to the impacts of climate change









xxx Not within walking distance of local services and facilities; No public transport; Site isolated from existing settlement


~

8. Achieve healthy lifestyles and provide facilities to enable ~

238

this 9. Provide social infrastructure for all ages and accessible services and facilities

~

10. Meet the needs of a changing population xxx Not within walking distance of local services and facilities; No public transport


x Site isolated from existing settlements/communities


x Future employment opportunities with proposed land use; Subject to the scale and scope of employment generated; Concentration of commercial/tourism accommodation away from town centre

14. Improve the skills of the labour force ? Subject to the scale and scope of employment generated 15. Minimise growth in car usage, reduce the need to travel and promote the shift to more sustainable modes of transport

xxx Distance to town centre services, facilities and cultural opportunities, and public transport hubs; Concentration of tourism accommodation away from town centre; Not within walking distance of local services and facilities; No public transport;

16. Strong local identity and sense of place x Site isolated from existing settlements/communities 17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime ~ Summary of assessment Some positive effects due to potential for local employment but negative effect where business use proposed outside Bedford town centre. Negative effect due to flood risk, use of greenfield land and distance of development from existing communities. Negative effects due to increase in vehicle movements and impact on transport poor. Summary of mitigation proposals Significant improvement in public transport may mitigate number of private trips. Flood Risk Assessment needed to determine possible mitigation. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No secondary or cumulative effects. Synergistic effects on transport network. POLICY AD13 Site Number … 195

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Address Land at Fields road (Phase 2 Employment), Wootton Location Extension to a growth area key service centre Proposal Employment (B1 & B2 - 295,000 sq ft gross/250,000 sq ft net) SA Objectives Assessment Comments 1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions x Not within walking distance of local services and facilities;


~ Flood Risk Zone 1








x Not within walking distance of local services and facilities; Good frequency of public transport; Site isolated from existing settlement


~


~


~

10. Meet the needs of a changing population x Not within walking distance of local services and facilities; Good frequency of public transport


x Site isolated from existing settlement/communities

12. Deliver low carbon buildings, whatever their use +

240


+ Future employment opportunities with proposed land use; Subject to the scale and scope of employment generated


xxx Distance to town centre services, facilities and cultural opportunities, and public transport hubs; Not within walking distance of local services and facilities; Poor frequency of public transport

16. Strong local identity and sense of place x Site isolated from existing settlement/communities 17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime ~ Summary of assessment Positive effects due to potential for local employment. Negative effect due to use of greenfield land and distance of development from existing communities. Negative effects due to increase in vehicle movements and impact on transport poor. Summary of mitigation proposals Significant improvement in public transport may mitigate number of private trips. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No secondary or cumulative effects. Synergistic effects on transport network. POLICY AD14 Site Number …24 Address Apex Site, Cardington Cross, Bedford Location Within the existing urban area or a growth area key service centre Proposal Mixed Use; Employment (B1, B2 and B8 - floorspace unknown); Hotel; Car showroom SA Objectives Assessment Comments 1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions x Not within walking distance of local services and facilities;

Good frequency of public transport.

241


x Flood Risk Zone 2








x Not within walking distance of local services and facilities; Good frequency of public transport.


~


~


~

10. Meet the needs of a changing population ~ 11. Promote community involvement by all groups in society in place shaping

~


x Future employment opportunities with proposed land use. Subject to scale and scope of employment generated; Concentration of commercial/tourism activity away from town centre


xxx Distance to town centre services, facilities and cultural opportunities, and public transport hubs; Not within walking distance of local services and facilities; Good frequency of public transport.

16. Strong local identity and sense of place x Site isolated from town centre 17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime ~ Summary of assessment Some positive effects due to potential for local employment but negative effect where business use occurs outside Bedford town centre and distance of development from existing communities. Negative effects due to use of greenfield land and flood risk. Negative effects due to increase in vehicle movements and impact on transport poor.

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Summary of mitigation proposals Significant improvement in public transport may mitigate number of private trips. Flood Risk Assessment needed to determine possible mitigation. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects Negative cumulative effects on Bedford town centre. No secondary or synergistic effects. POLICY AD 15 Site Number …78 Address Reservoir Site, Manton Lane, Bedford Location Within existing urban area or a growth area key service centre Proposal Employment - B2 / B8 (estimated 3.247 ha gross / 0.4 – 0.6 ha net) SA Objectives Assessment Comments 1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions ++ Proximity to town centre services, facilities and cultural



~ Flood Risk Zone 1







243




~





10. Meet the needs of a changing population ++ Proximity to Bedford town centre services, facilities and cultural opportunities, and public transport hubs; Local services and facilities not within walking distance; Good frequency of public transport


++ Proximity to Bedford town centre services, facilities and cultural opportunities, and public transport hubs; Site easily incorporated into existing settlement pattern;

12. Deliver low carbon buildings, whatever their use + Buildings would include energy saving technology. 13. Support the borough’s economy and specifically encourage the high value knowledge based industries

+ Future employment opportunity with proposed land use; Subject to scope and scale of employment generated

14. Improve the skills of the labour force ? Subject to scope and scale of employment generated 15. Minimise growth in car usage, reduce the need to travel and promote the shift to more sustainable modes of transport

++ Proximity town centre services, facilities and cultural opportunities, and public transport hubs; Local services and facilities not within walking distance; Good frequency of public transport

16. Strong local identity and sense of place + Site easily incorporated into existing settlement pattern 17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime ++ Active use of derelict/underutilised land in the urban area Summary of assessment Positive effects due to use of brownfield land and where use of derelict/underutilised land may strengthen communities and reduce fear of crime. Positive effects due to local walkability and public transport levels of service, and distances may reduce need for private vehicle movements. Positive effects where future communities have good access to existing communities, social infrastructure and a range of recreation. Positive effects due to potential for local employment. Summary of mitigation proposals N/A Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects

244

No effects POLICY AD16 Site Number …67 Address Land rear of Manton Industrial Estate, Bedford Location Extension to the urban area Proposal Employment: B1/B2 (office, research, light industrial) and B8 (distribution; floor spaces unknown) SA Objectives Assessment Comments 1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions ++ Proximity to town centre services, facilities and cultural



~ Flood Risk Zone 1










~

8. Achieve healthy lifestyles and provide facilities to enable ++ Proximity to Bedford town centre services, facilities and cultural

245

this opportunities, and public transport hubs; 9. Provide social infrastructure for all ages and accessible services and facilities









16. Strong local identity and sense of place ~ 17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime ~ Summary of assessment Positive effects due to potential for local employment. Positive effects due to public transport levels of service, and distances may reduce need for private vehicle movements. Positive effects where future communities have good access to existing communities, social infrastructure and a range of recreation. Negative effect due to use of greenfield land. Summary of mitigation proposals N/A Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No effects. POLICY AD17 Site Number … A015 Address

246

Land west of the B530, Kempston Location Within the urban area Proposal Employment SA Objectives Assessment Comments 1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions ++ Proximity to Bedford town centre services, facilities and cultural













~





10. Meet the needs of a changing population ++ Proximity to Bedford town centre services, facilities and cultural opportunities, and public transport hubs; Limited local services and facilities within walking distance; Good frequency of public transport

247



12. Deliver low carbon buildings, whatever their use ~ 13. Support the borough’s economy and specifically encourage the high value knowledge based industries




16. Strong local identity and sense of place ~ 17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime ~ Summary of assessment Positive effects where distances may reduce need for private vehicle movements. Positive effects where future communities have good access to existing communities, social infrastructure and a range of recreation. Positive effects due to potential for local employment. Negative effects due to use of greenfield land and flood risk. Summary of mitigation proposals Flood Risk Assessment needed to determine possible mitigation. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No secondary or cumulative effects. Synergistic effects on transport network. POLICY AD18 Site Number …22 Address Land North of A603 Cardington Road, Bedford Location Within the existing urban area or a growth area key service centre Proposal Other use (Park & Ride)

248

SA Objectives Assessment Comments 1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions +++ Proximity to town centre services, facilities and cultural

opportunities, and public transport hubs; Good frequency of public transport


xx Flood Risk Zone 3








~


~


~


~

10. Meet the needs of a changing population ~ 11. Promote community involvement by all groups in society in place shaping

~


~


+++ Proximity to town centre services, facilities and cultural opportunities, and public transport hubs; Good frequency of public transport

16. Strong local identity and sense of place ~ 17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime ~ Summary of assessment Positive effects due to public transport levels of service and reduction in private vehicle movements. Negative effects due to use of greenfield land and flood risk.

249

Summary of mitigation proposals Flood Risk Assessment needed to determine possible mitigation. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No cumulative or synergistic effects. Positive secondary effect on town centre. POLCY AD19 Site Number …91 Address Land south of Bromham Road, Biddenham Location Within the existing urban area or a growth area key service centre Proposal Other Use (Place of Worship) SA Objectives Assessment Comments 1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions x Local services and facilities not within walking distance; Good


~ Flood Risk Zone 1


x Land not previously developed.


x Land not previously developed;





7. Provide a range of quality homes for all, especially ~

250

affordable housing 8. Achieve healthy lifestyles and provide facilities to enable this

~


~



x Edge site, not easily incorporated into existing settlement pattern


~



16. Strong local identity and sense of place x Edge site, not easily incorporated into existing settlement pattern

17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime ~ Summary of assessment Negative effects due to use of greenfield land and change to the character of the settlement pattern. Negative effects due to increase in vehicle movements and impact on transport poor. Summary of mitigation proposals Significant improvement in public transport may mitigate number of private trips. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects Negative cumulative effects on village. No secondary effects. Synergistic effects on the transport network. POLICY AD20 Site Number …59 Address

251

Land at Cut Throat Lane, Bedford Location Extension to the urban area Proposal Hotel (130,000 sq.ft gross / 115,000 sq.ft net); Employment - B1Office (130,000 sq.ft gross/115,000 sq.ft net) SA Objectives Assessment Comments 1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions ++ Local services and facilities within walking distance; Good


xx (part) Flood Risk Zone 1 & 3








++ Local services and facilities within walking distance; Good frequency of public transport


~



~

10. Meet the needs of a changing population ++ Local services and facilities within walking distance; Good frequency of public transport


~


x Future employment opportunities with proposed land use; Subject to scope and scale of employment generated; Concentration of commercial/tourism activity away from town

252

centre 14. Improve the skills of the labour force ? Subject to the scale and scope of employment generated 15. Minimise growth in car usage, reduce the need to travel and promote the shift to more sustainable modes of transport

+ At a likely walking distance from existing communities, services and facilities; Good frequency of public transport;

16. Strong local identity and sense of place x Site isolated from town centre; 17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime ~ Summary of assessment Positive effects due to local walkability and public transport levels of service, and distances may reduce need for private vehicle movements. Positive effects due to potential for local employment, but negative effects where business use proposed outside Bedford town centre. Negative effects due to use of greenfield land and flood risk. Summary of mitigation proposals Flood Risk Assessment needed to determine possible mitigation. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects Negative cumulative effects on Bedford town centre. No secondary effects. Synergistic effects on the transport network. POLICY AD21 Site Number … 165 Address Land at Bedford Road, Great Barford Location Extension to a key service centre Proposal Mixed use: Housing (not specified @ 30 dpha); Health centre; School bus parking and drop off facility SA Objectives Assessment Comments 1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions + Local services and facilities within walking distance; Infrequent


~ Flood Risk Zone 1

253








+ Local services and facilities within walking distance; Infrequent public transport


+


+ Facilities proposed


~

10. Meet the needs of a changing population + Local services and facilities within walking distance; Infrequent public transport


+ Site easily incorporated into existing settlement pattern


~


xx Distance to town centre services, facilities and cultural opportunities, and public transport hubs; Local services and facilities within walking distance; Infrequent public transport

16. Strong local identity and sense of place + Site easily incorporated into existing settlement pattern 17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime ~ Summary of assessment Positive effects due to local walkability, but distances likely to continue private vehicle movements. Some positive effect where use of land complements existing settlement pattern and where future communities have access to health infrastructure. Negative effect due to use of greenfield land. Summary of mitigation proposals N/A

254

Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No secondary or cumulative effects. Synergistic effects on the transport network POLICY AD22 Site Number … 209 Address The Lakes, Roxton Road, Wyboston Location Other location in the rural policy area Proposal Recreation/Leisure; Other (Holiday Fishing Village) SA Objectives Assessment Comments 1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions xxx Local services and facilities not within walking distance; Poor


~ Flood Risk Zone 1




x Land not previously developed; Subject to habitat restoration and future management




xxx Local services and facilities not within walking distance; poor frequency of public transport; Subject to accessibility of commercial benefit to wider community


~


+ Recreation facilities proposed

255


~

10. Meet the needs of a changing population xxx Local services and facilities not within walking distance; Poor frequency of public transport


~


+ Future employment opportunities with proposed land use; Subject to scale and scope of employment generated


xxx Distance to town centre services, facilities and cultural opportunities, and public transport hubs; Services and facilities not within walking distance; Poor frequency of public transport

16. Strong local identity and sense of place ~ 17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime ~ Summary of assessment Positive effect where a range of range of recreation proposed and potential for local employment. Negative effect due to use of greenfield land. Negative effects due to increase in vehicle movements and impact on transport poor. Summary of mitigation proposals Significant improvement in public transport may mitigate number of private trips. Any future development must have regard to habitat and biodiversity values. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No secondary or cumulative effects. Synergistic effects on transport network. POLICY AD23 Site Number …279 Address Rear of Peaches Close, Harrold Location Within a key service centre

256

Proposal Affordable Housing (10 – 12 units) SA Objectives Assessment Comments 1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions ++ Local services and facilities within walking distance; Good






+ Land previously developed; Existing Tree Protection Order(s) on site;


++ Land not previously developed; Active use of derelict/underutilised land in settlement area;






~


~



+ Site easily incorporated into existing settlement patternx


~


x Distance to town centre services, facilities and cultural opportunities, and public transport hubs; Local services and facilities within walking distance; Good frequency of public transport x

257

16. Strong local identity and sense of place + Site easily incorporated into existing settlement pattern 17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime ~ Summary of assessment Positive effects due to local walkability and public transport levels of service, but distances likely to increase private vehicle movements. Positive effect where development should provide a housing mix. Positive effects due to use of a brownfield land and use of land complements existing settlement pattern. Negative effect due to flood risk Summary of mitigation proposals Flood Risk Assessment needed to determine possible mitigation. Any future development must have regard to habitat and biodiversity values. Any future development must have particular regard to historic features. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No secondary or cumulative effects. Synergistic effects on transport network. POLICY AD24 Site Number … 257 Address Land north of Ravensden Road, Salph End, Renhold Location Other location in the rural policy area Proposal Affordable Housing Exception (2) SA Objectives Assessment Comments 1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions x Limited local services and facilities within walking distance;


x Flood Risk Zone 2



4. Create, conserve, protect and enhance the Borough’s x Land not previously developed

258

natural features, distinctive local environments, habitats and species 5. Promote sustainable lifestyles, use resources efficiently, maximise recycling and re-use



xx Limited local services and facilities within walking distance; Good frequency of public transport


++ Development to include affordable housing


~


~

10. Meet the needs of a changing population x Limited local services and facilities within walking distance; Good frequency of public transport


x End site, easily incorporated into existing settlement pattern


~


xxx Distance to town centre services, facilities and cultural opportunities; Limited local services and facilities within walking distance; Good frequency of public transport

16. Strong local identity and sense of place ~ 17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime ~ Summary of assessment Positive effect where scale of development should provide a housing mix. Negative effect due to flood risk, use of greenfield land and increase of activity beyond village edge. Negative effects due to increase in vehicle movements and impact on transport poor. Summary of mitigation proposals Significant improvement in public transport may mitigate number of private trips. Flood Risk Assessment needed to determine possible mitigation. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No secondary or cumulative effects. Synergistic effects on transport network.

259

POLICY AD25 Site Number … 223 Address Land off Church Road, Willington Location Extension to a non-key service centre settlement with a defined settlement policy area Proposal Recreation/Leisure (holiday lodges) SA Objectives Assessment Comments 1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions xx Local services and facilities not within walking distance;

Infrequent public transport 2. Reduce the risk of flooding including adapting to the impacts of climate change

~ Flood Risk Zone 1




x Land not previously developed; Subject to effects on Country Wildlife Site




xx Local services and facilities not within walking distance; Infrequent public transport


~


+


~

10. Meet the needs of a changing population xx Local services and facilities not within walking distance; Infrequent public transport

260


~

12. Deliver low carbon buildings, whatever their use ++ Development/building likely to include renewables technology 13. Support the borough’s economy and specifically encourage the high value knowledge based industries

+ Future employment opportunity with proposed land use; Subject to the scale and scope of employment generated


xxx Distance to town centre services, facilities and cultural opportunities, and public transport hubs; Local services and facilities not within walking distance; Infrequent public transport

16. Strong local identity and sense of place ~ 17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime ~ Summary of assessment Positive effects due to potential for local employment. Negative effects due to increase in vehicle movements and impact on transport poor. Negative effect due to use of greenfield land. Summary of mitigation proposals Any future development must have particular regard to the biodiversity values and character of the County Wildlife designation area. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects Negative cumulative effects on village. No secondary or synergistic effects. POLICY AD26 Site Number …63 Address Land at Manton Lane, Bedford Location Extension to the urban area Proposal Employment (B2 - 37,000 sq.ft gross / 32,000 sq.ft net); Travelling Showperson plot SA Objectives Assessment Comments

261

1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions ++ Proximity to town centre services, facilities and cultural opportunities, and public transport hubs; Local services and facilities not within walking distance; Good frequency of public transport


~ Flood Risk Zone 1


x Land not previously developed;








++ Possible Travelling Showperson site







++ Proximity to Bedford town centre services, facilities and cultural opportunities, and public transport hubs; Site easily incorporated into existing settlement pattern;


+ Future employment opportunities with proposed land use; Subject to the scope and scale of employment generated


++ Proximity to town centre services, facilities and cultural opportunities, and public transport hubs; At a distance greater

262

than likely walking distance; Good frequency of public transport.

16. Strong local identity and sense of place ~ Edge site, easily incorporated into existing settlement pattern 17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime ~ Summary of assessment Some positive effect due to potential for local employment. Positive effects due to public transport levels of service, and distances may reduce need for private vehicle movements. Positive effects where future communities have good access to existing communities, social infrastructure and a range of recreation. Positive effect where development could provide Travelling Showperson site. Negative effect due to use of greenfield land. Summary of mitigation proposals N/A. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No effects.

263

Appendix 9

Sustainability appraisal of proposed designation policies in the Draft Plan (Includes the four site specific infrastructure policies AD27 – AD30) Policy AD27 Road schemes Policy AD28 Pedestrian routes Policy AD29 Park and Ride facilities Policy AD30 Commercial vehicle parking and motorist facilities Policy AD31 Green Infrastructure opportunity zones Policy AD32 Bedford River Valley Park Policy AD33 Forest of Marston Vale Policy AD34 Bedford to Milton Keynes Waterway Park Policy AD35 Provision of open space and built facilities in association with new development Policy AD36 District Centre – new retail facilities Policy AD37 District Centre – changes of use Policy AD38 Local centres – new retail facilities Policy AD39 Key Service Centres (applies both in the Growth Area and Rural Policy Area) Policy AD40 Other Growth Area local centres Policy AD41 Other defined retail centres Policy AD42 Individual shops and undefined retail centres Policy AD43 All shop units Policy AD44 Cycling Policy AD45 Village open spaces and views Policy AD46 Urban area boundary Policy AD47 Urban open spaces and gaps Policy AD48 Local gaps Policy AD49 Former Land Settlement Association area Option CC1 Code level 4 and BREEAM “very good” Option CC2 Code level 4 plus zero carbon, Carbon Offset Fund and BREEAM “excellent” Key to appraisal effects:

Symbol Likely effect against the SA objective

Major positive effect Positive effect

o Neutral or uncertain effect x Negative effect xx Major negative effect ~ Not relevant

264

Policy AD27 Road schemes

Assessment of effects Sustainability objective Short Medium Long

Comments

1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions x x x Mitigate by improving public

transport 2. Reduce the risk of flooding including adapting to the impacts of climate change

o o o

3. Protect and enhance the historic environment (and cultural heritage) of the Borough

o o o

Difficult to determine. Potential negative effects where road corridor dominates all other features


x x x Mitigate by careful design of schemes


x x x Mitigate by maximising use of recycled materials


o o o

Difficult to determine. Potential negative effect where scheme fails to provide for transport poor by way of pedestrian access and adequately mitigate noise impacts on residential areas


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~

10. Meet the needs of a changing population o o o


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~

13. Support the borough’s economy and specifically encourage the high value

The purpose of the scheme is to improve traffic flow which will benefit the local economy

265

knowledge based industries 14. Improve the skills of the labour force ~ ~ ~


x x x Mitigate by improving public transport

16. Strong local identity and sense of place x x x Mitigate by careful design of

schemes 17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime ~ ~ ~

Summary of assessment Mostly negative effects due to increased traffic and the engineering associated with new road schemes. Positive effect on the economy. Summary of mitigation proposals Mitigate by careful design of schemes, improving public transport and maximising use of recycled materials. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No effects. Policy AD28 Pedestrian routes


Comments


Positive effect where new routes may encourage modal shift over time


~ ~ ~


o o o Difficult to determine. Potential positive effect where routes pass historic and cultural sites


~ ~ ~



Positive effects where new routes provide opportunities for activity and participation

7. Provide a range of ~ ~ ~

266

quality homes for all, especially affordable housing 8. Achieve healthy lifestyles and provide facilities to enable this



~ ~ ~


Positive effect where new routes provides opportunities for active transport




~ ~ ~


o o o

Difficult to determine. Potential positive effect where new and existing businesses choose to operate in places with an active, healthy workforce.

14. Improve the skills of the labour force ~ ~ ~


Positive effect where new routes are created for active transport modes


o o o

Difficult to determine. Potential positive effect where communities identify with new routes as an important contribution to place

17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime ~ ~ ~

Summary of assessment Mostly positive and major positive effects due to increased opportunity for walking, leading to modal shift and increased activity. No negative effects. Summary of mitigation proposals None required. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects Positive cumulative effect due to long term improvements in health. Policy AD29 Park and Ride facilities


Comments


Positive effect as location on strategic network will keep traffic out of town, reducing

267

congestion 2. Reduce the risk of flooding including adapting to the impacts of climate change

x x x

Negative effect where requires extensive area of non-permeable surface. Mitigate by design and choice of materials.


~ ~ ~


x x x



o o o

Difficult to determine. Potential positive effect where promotes use of public transport for a section of a journey


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~




~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


Increases travel choice and should reduce congestion in town, making it more attractive to business

14. Improve the skills of the labour force o o o Not relevant

15. Minimise growth in car usage, reduce the need to o o o Difficult to determine. Potential

positive effect where promotes

268

travel and promote the shift to more sustainable modes of transport

use of public transport for a section of a journey


o o o

Difficult to determine. Potential positive effect where reduced traffic in Bedford town centre may increase opportunities for place making


o o o

Difficult to determine. Potential positive effect where people perceive the environment as safer than other parking options

Summary of assessment Some negative effects due to creation of extensive area of non-permeable surface. Positive effects due to reduced congestion. Summary of mitigation proposals Mitigate by design and choice of materials. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No effects. Policy AD30 Commercial vehicle parking and motorist facilities


Comments


Positive effect as location on strategic network will keep traffic out of town, reducing congestion


x x x

Negative effect where requires extensive area of non permeable surface. Mitigate by design and choice of materials.


~ ~ ~


x x x



~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


269


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~

10. Meet the needs of a changing population ~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~



~ ~ ~

16. Strong local identity and sense of place ~ ~ ~


Summary of assessment Some negative effects due to creation of extensive area of non-permeable surface. Positive effect due to reduced congestion. Summary of mitigation proposals Mitigate by design and choice of materials. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No effects. Policy AD31 Green Infrastructure opportunity zones


Comments

1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions ~ ~ ~


Positive effect where permeable surfaces are retained and there is no risk of development

3. Protect and enhance the Positive effect where there is

270

historic environment (and cultural heritage) of the Borough

no risk of development and heritage is a consideration in the development of these zones


Positive effect where there is no risk of development and landscape and biodiversity are considerations in the development of these zones

5. Promote sustainable lifestyles, use resources efficiently, maximise recycling and re-use o o o

Difficult to determine. Potential positive effect where interaction with areas of naturalness increases knowledge and awareness of sustainable choices

6. Reduce levels of deprivation and exclusion, particularly the elderly and those from disadvantaged backgrounds o o o

Difficult to determine. Potential positive effect where space and areas of naturalness may improve quality of life and create opportunities for social interaction. Effect dependant on location relative to population.


~ ~ ~


Potential positive effect where space and areas of naturalness provides for physical activity and mental wellbeing


~ ~ ~


Positive effect where provides opportunities for countryside access

11. Promote community involvement by all groups in society in place shaping o o o

Difficult to determine. Potential positive effect where space and areas of naturalness may create meeting places for participation and opportunities for social interaction.


~ ~ ~


Positive effect as likely to increase general attractiveness of the area for relocating and new businesses

14. Improve the skills of ~ ~ ~

271

the labour force 15. Minimise growth in car usage, reduce the need to travel and promote the shift to more sustainable modes of transport

o o o

Difficult to determine. Potential positive effect where spaces are attractive and encourage people to choose sustainable transport


Positive effect where preserves the character and quality of the countryside


x x x

May provide spaces for antisocial behaviour or increase perception of personal risk. Mitigate by careful design eg lighting, landscaping, passive surveillance

Summary of assessment Mostly positive and major positive effects due to protection and enhancement of landscape, historic environment, biodiversity and accessible green space. Negative effect as increases potential for antisocial behaviour and fear of crime. Summary of mitigation proposals Mitigate by careful design eg lighting, landscaping, passive surveillance. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No effects. Policy AD32 Bedford River Valley Park


Comments

1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions o o o

Difficult to determine. Potential negative effect unless visitors choose sustainable transport instead of motor vehicles




o o o

Difficult to determine. Potential positive effect where historic and cultural sites are incorporated


Positive effect where new habitats created


o o o

Difficult to determine. Potential positive effect where space and areas of naturalness encourage recreation


Positive effect where provides opportunities for activity and participation

272

those from disadvantaged backgrounds 7. Provide a range of quality homes for all, especially affordable housing

~ ~ ~


Positive effect where space and areas of naturalness provides for physical activity and mental wellbeing


~ ~ ~






~ ~ ~





o o o



o o o

Difficult to determine. Potential positive effect where preserves the character and quality of the countryside, and where communities identify with the area as an important contribution to place


x x x


Summary of assessment Mostly positive and major positive effects due to protection and enhancement of landscape, biodiversity, recreation and countryside access. Negative effect as increases potential for

273

antisocial behaviour and fear of crime. Summary of mitigation proposals Mitigate by careful design eg lighting, landscaping, passive surveillance. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No effects. Policy AD33 Forest of Marston Vale


Comments

1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions Positive effect where extensive

areas of tree planting proposed 2. Reduce the risk of flooding including adapting to the impacts of climate change



Positive effect where no risk of development for any sites within the designation area


Positive effect where extensive areas of tree planting and associated habitat creation proposed


Positive effect where restoration of damaged land




~ ~ ~




~ ~ ~


11. Promote community Positive effect where

274

involvement by all groups in society in place shaping

community involved in project. Creation of meeting places for participation and opportunities for social interaction.


~ ~ ~





o o o

Difficult to determine. Potential positive effect where spaces are attractive and encourage people to walk and cycle, however visitors may drive to enjoy it.


Positive effect where preserves the character and quality of the countryside, and where communities identify with the area as an important contribution to place


x x x


Summary of assessment Mostly positive and major positive effects due to tree planting, protection and enhancement of landscape, historic environment, biodiversity and accessible green space, community involvement. Negative effect as increases potential for antisocial behaviour and fear of crime. Summary of mitigation proposals Mitigate by careful design eg lighting, landscaping, passive surveillance Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No effects. Policy AD34 Bedford to Milton Keynes Waterway Park


Comments





275


o o o

Difficult to determine. Potential positive effect where historic and cultural sites are incorporated along the routes with interpretation




o o o





~ ~ ~




~ ~ ~




o o o Difficult to determine. Potential positive effect where community involved in design


~ ~ ~





Positive effect where creates opportunities for alternative forms of transport

16. Strong local identity Positive effect where creates

276

and sense of place local identity 17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime

x x x


Summary of assessment Mostly positive and major positive effects due to protection of natural features and habitats, opportunities for activity, participation and transport, and creating local identity. Negative effect as increases potential for antisocial behaviour and fear of crime. Summary of mitigation proposals Mitigate by careful design eg lighting, landscaping, passive surveillance Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No effects. Policy AD35 Provision of open space and built facilities in association with new development


Comments


Positive effect where local provision may reduce the need for some private motor vehicle trips




Positive effect where the character of the built form is preserved and enhanced


Positive effect where areas of naturalness within the built form are preserved and enhanced


Difficult to determine. Potential positive effect where interaction with areas of naturalness increase knowledge and awareness of sustainable choices


o o o

Difficult to determine. Potential positive effect where space and areas of naturalness may improve quality of life and create opportunities for social interaction.


~ ~ ~

277


Positive effect where space and areas of naturalness provide for physical activity and mental wellbeing


~ ~ ~

10. Meet the needs of a changing population Positive effect where provides

opportunities for recreation 11. Promote community involvement by all groups in society in place shaping o o o



~ ~ ~


o o o

Difficult to determine. Potential positive effect if spaces are attractive and where new and existing businesses choose attractive places within which to operate





Positive effect where the character of the built form is preserved


x x x


Summary of assessment Mostly positive and major positive effects due to reduction in need to travel, protection and creation of open areas, opportunities for recreation and creating local identity. Negative effect as increases potential for antisocial behaviour and fear of crime. Summary of mitigation proposals Mitigate by careful design eg lighting, landscaping, passive surveillance Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No effects. Policy AD36 District Centre – new retail facilities

278


Comments


Positive effect where provision of services and facilities locally may reduce the need for some private motor vehicle trips


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~




Positive effect where ensuring local provision of services reduces the need to travel and creates a meeting space for interaction


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


Positive effect where retail facilities can change to meet new needs and demand


Positive effect where ensuring local provision of services and facilities promotes a viable centre and may create a meeting space for interaction


~ ~ ~


Positive effect where ensuring local provision of services and facilities promotes a viable

279


centre supporting the economy



Positive effect where provision of services and facilities locally reduces the need for some private motor vehicle trips

16. Strong local identity and sense of place Positive effect as community

identifies with centre 17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime ~ ~ ~

Summary of assessment Mostly positive effects due to reduced need to travel and local provision of services. No negative effects. Summary of mitigation proposals None required. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No effects. Policy AD37 District Centres – changes of use


Comments


Positive effect where protection of local services and facilities may reduce the need for some private motor vehicle trips


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~




Positive effect where protection of local services reduces the need to travel and creates a meeting space for interaction


280


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


o o o

Difficult to determine. Restricting changes of use inhibits response to changing demands, however these may not be determined by local needs




~ ~ ~


Positive effect where protection of local services and facilities promotes a viable centre supporting the economy



Positive effect where protection of local services and facilities reduces the need for some private motor vehicle trips



Summary of assessment Mostly positive effects due to reduced need to travel and local provision of services. No negative effects. Summary of mitigation proposals None required. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No effects. Policy AD38 Local centres – new retail facilities


Comments

1. Reduce greenhouse gas Positive effect where provision

281

emissions of services and facilities locally may reduce the need for some private motor vehicle trips


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~






~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~






~ ~ ~


Positive effect where ensuring local provision of services and facilities promotes a viable centre supporting the economy


282





Summary of assessment Mostly positive effects due to reduced need to travel and local provision of services. No negative effects. Summary of mitigation proposals None required. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No effects. Policy AD39 Key Service Centres (applies both in the Growth Area and Rural Policy Area)


Comments




~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~






~ ~ ~

283


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


o o o





~ ~ ~








Summary of assessment Mostly positive effects due to reduced need to travel and local provision of services. No negative effects. Summary of mitigation proposals None required. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No effects. Policy AD40 Other Growth Area local centres


Comments



284


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~






~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


o o o





~ ~ ~




285





Summary of assessment Mostly positive effects due to reduced need to travel and local provision of services. No negative effects. Summary of mitigation proposals None required. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No effects. Policy AD41 Other defined retail centres


Comments




~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~






~ ~ ~

286


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


o o o





~ ~ ~








Summary of assessment Mostly positive effects due to reduced need to travel and local provision of services. No negative effects. Summary of mitigation proposals None required. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No effects. Policy AD42 Individual shops and undefined retail centres


Comments



287


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~






~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


o o o



~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


15. Minimise growth in car Positive effect where protection

288

usage, reduce the need to travel and promote the shift to more sustainable modes of transport

of local services and facilities reduces the need for some private motor vehicle trips


identifies with local shops 17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime ~ ~ ~

Summary of assessment Mostly positive effects due to reduced need to travel and local provision of services. No negative effects. Summary of mitigation proposals None required. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No effects. Policy AD43 All shop units


Comments


Positive effect where protection of local shop units may reduce the need for some private motor vehicle trips


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~




Positive effect where protection of local shop units may reduce the need to travel


~ ~ ~

8. Achieve healthy lifestyles and provide ~ ~ ~

289

facilities to enable this 9. Provide social infrastructure for all ages and accessible services and facilities

~ ~ ~


o o o



~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~





identifies with local shops 17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime

x x x

Negative effect where limits on change of use may result in empty buildings, create opportunities for antisocial behaviour and increase perceptions of personal risk

Summary of assessment Mostly positive effects due to reduced need to travel and local provision of services. Negative effect due to likely creation of vacant units. Summary of mitigation proposals Encourage temporary use by rate concessions. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No effects. Policy AD44 Cycling


Comments


Positive effect where new routes may increasingly encourage modal shift

2. Reduce the risk of ~ ~ ~

290

flooding including adapting to the impacts of climate change 3. Protect and enhance the historic environment (and cultural heritage) of the Borough

o o o



~ ~ ~


Positive effect where new routes are created




~ ~ ~




~ ~ ~


Positive effect where new routes provide opportunities for active transport


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


o o o

Difficult to determine. Potential positive effect where new and existing businesses choose to operate in places with a fit, active, healthy workforce.


15. Minimise growth in car usage, reduce the need to travel and promote the shift to more sustainable modes


291

of transport 16. Strong local identity and sense of place

o o o



Summary of assessment Mostly positive and major positive effects due to increased opportunity for cycling, leading to modal shift and increased activity. No negative effects Summary of mitigation proposals None required. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No effects. Policy AD45 Village open spaces and views


Comments





Positive effect where the character of the built form and quality of the surrounding countryside is preserved


Positive effect where areas of naturalness within the built form and quality of the surrounding countryside is preserved


Difficult to determine. Potential positive effect where interaction with areas of naturalness may increase knowledge and awareness of sustainable choices




~ ~ ~

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~ ~ ~





~ ~ ~


o o o




o o o

Difficult to determine. Potential positive effect where spaces are attractive and encourage people to choose active transport


Positive effect where preserves the character of the built form and quality of the surrounding countryside


x x x


Summary of assessment Positive and major positive effects due to preservation of character of the built form and quality of the surrounding countryside. Negative effect as increases potential for antisocial behaviour and fear of crime. Summary of mitigation proposals Mitigate by careful design eg lighting, landscaping, passive surveillance Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No effects. Policy AD46 Urban area boundary

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Comments


Positive effects where containing urban expansion promotes intensification of activities and may, over time, reduce the need for some private motor vehicle trips

2. Reduce the risk of flooding including adapting to the impacts of climate change o o o

Difficult to determine. Potential positive effect where permeable surfaces are retained beyond the urban boundary but intensification of built features within urban boundary may increase risk


Positive effect where preserves the character of the built form and quality of the surrounding countryside is preserved




Positive effect where urban boundary will require intensification of activity, over time, on previously developed land


o o o

Difficult to determine. Potential positive effect where intensification of activity within urban boundary may reduce distances to facilities and services


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


o o o


11. Promote community o o o Difficult to determine. Potential

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involvement by all groups in society in place shaping

positive effect where containing urban expansion gives communities the greatest possible opportunity to connect with each other


~ ~ ~


o o

Positive effect where intensification of activity may, over time, reduce infrastructure costs and locate communities near employment opportunities



Positive effects where containing urban expansion promotes intensification of activities and, over time, may reduce the need for some private motor vehicle trips


Positive effect where purpose of preserving urban boundary is to preserve character of urban area


Positive effects where limiting urban expansion promotes intensification of activities over time and may increase opportunity for passive surveillance and sense of personal safety

Summary of assessment Positive and major positive effects increasing over time due to the containment of urban expansion promoting intensification of activities and preserving the character of the built form and quality of the surrounding countryside. No negative effects. Summary of mitigation proposals None required. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects The containment of development has positive synergistic effects on a number of sustainability indicators. Policy AD47 Urban open spaces and gaps


Comments




3. Protect and enhance the Positive effect where preserves

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historic environment (and cultural heritage) of the Borough

the character of the built form


Positive effect where preserves areas of naturalness within the built form




Difficult to determine. Potential positive effect where open space and areas of naturalness may improve quality of life and create opportunities for social interaction. Effect dependant on location relative to population.


~ ~ ~


Potential positive effect where open space and areas of naturalness provide for physical activity and mental wellbeing


~ ~ ~





~ ~ ~


o o o



296


o o o


16. Strong local identity and sense of place Positive effect where preserves

the character of the built form 17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime

x x x


Summary of assessment Positive and major positive effects due to preservation of character of the built form and areas of naturalness. Negative effect as increases potential for antisocial behaviour and fear of crime. Summary of mitigation proposals Mitigate by careful design eg lighting, landscaping, passive surveillance Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No effects. Policy AD48 Local gaps


Comments











~ ~ ~

297


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~



~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~



o o o

Difficult to determine. Potential negative effect where perception of distance and separation between centres may inhibit active transport choices


Positive effect where maintaining strong boundaries to built form and separation between settlements will strengthen identity of place


o o

Difficult to determine. Long term positive effect where maintaining extent of settlements creates intensification of uses, increases population density and passive surveillance over time

Summary of assessment Major positive and positive effects due to preservation of character of the built form and quality of the surrounding countryside. No negative effects. Summary of mitigation proposals None required. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No effects.

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Policy AD49 Former Land Settlement Association area


Comments



Positive effect where some land protected from future development


Positive effect where unique character and historic layout of area is maintained


Positive effect where portions of land protected from future development


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


Positive effect where unique housing stock within the borough is maintained


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


Positive effect where some flexibility exists to change housing stock with demand


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~

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~ ~ ~




Summary of assessment Positive and major positive effects due to protection of land from future development and maintenance of unique character and historic layout of area. No negative effects. Summary of mitigation proposals None required. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No effects. Addendum in relation to climate change policy Option CC1


Comments


Positive effect as policy will increase use of renewable energy


Positive effect as policy will reduce surface water run-off and conserve water


o o o Uncertain effect where potential impact on setting of historic features


~ ~ ~


Positive effect where building design uses resources efficiently


o o Uncertain effect although lower energy use may have long-term positive effect on living costs


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~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~



~ ~ ~


Positive effect as policy will result in low carbon buildings


Positive effect as likely to increase general attractiveness of the area for relocating and new businesses and lower energy costs

14. Improve the skills of the labour force ~ ~

Short term effect as new construction skills learned by local workforce


~ ~ ~



Summary of assessment Mostly positive and major positive effects due to increased use of renewable energy and construction of sustainable buildings. No negative effects. Summary of mitigation proposals None required. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No effects. Option CC2


Comments


Positive effect as policy will increase use of renewable energy

2. Reduce the risk of flooding including adapting to the impacts of climate


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change 3. Protect and enhance the historic environment (and cultural heritage) of the Borough



~ ~ ~




Carbon Offset fund will reduce energy costs for disadvantaged groups


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~



~ ~ ~








~ ~ ~


302


Summary of assessment Mostly positive and major positive effects due to increased use of renewable energy and construction of sustainable buildings. No negative effects. Summary of mitigation proposals None required. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No effects.

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Appendix 10 List of policies in the Allocations and Designations Plan for Submission Allocation policies Policy AD2 Land at Hall End Road. Wootton Land at Hall End Road, Wootton will be developed for a mix of residential and education uses. Key principles of development include: i. Provision of a range of housing types and sizes on two hectares of land

located on the eastern part of the site adjoining the existing village. ii. At least one hectare of land in close proximity to Wootton Upper School to be

reserved for education use. This to be located in the western part of the site. iii. Access into the site to be opposite the current entrance to Wootton Upper

School or in its vicinity. iv. Buffer planting and landscaping to assimilate the development into the

landscape and provide separation for the properties on the eastern edge of the site.

v. Contributions to the delivery of the objectives of the Forest of Marston Vale. vi. Improvements to transportation networks, including:

a. Improvements to the footway on the eastern side of Hall End Road. b. Pedestrian links through the residential part of the site to connect to

adjacent development, including a shared use pedestrian/cycle link with Studley Road.

c. A pedestrian/cycle (toucan) crossing of Hall End Road to serve the school.

vii. Pre-determination archaeological evaluation. viii. Submission of a heritage statement setting out the potential impact of the

proposed development on the significance of any heritage assets affected. ix. Any other requirements in accordance with the council’s policies and

strategies. Policy AD3 Land at Old Ford End Road, Queens Park, Bedford Land identified at Old Ford End Road, Queens Park, Bedford will be developed for residential use. Key principles of development include:- i. Dwellings to be integrated with existing development in terms of size, scale

and design. ii. Assessment of the nature and extent of ground contamination and

preparation of a remediation strategy for the site including methods of disposing of contaminated material, measures to prevent the pollution of surface and ground water and provisions for future monitoring, to be approved by the council.

iii. Any other requirements in accordance with the council’s policies and strategies.

Policy AD4 Wixams Northern Expansion Land to the north of Wixams will be developed for a mix of residential, employment, school and community uses conditional upon there being no delay to the delivery of key infrastructure on the main Wixams site. In the event that an application comes forward before o the delivery of the railway station or

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o the completion of the remediation of village 2 on the core Wixams settlement area or

o the release of village 2 to the market or o the completion of 2201 dwellings the application must be accompanied by a statement setting out a detailed programme for the delivery of all key infrastructure and community provision in the core Wixams site that generally accords with the principles in the original S106. The key principles of development include: i. Provision of a mix of dwelling types and sizes. ii. Provision of a site for approximately 80 extra care units iii. Provision of 5 hectares of B1 employment uses and remodelling of the

committed employment area to the east of the allocation site to create a gateway employment site. An additional 4.5 hectares reserved for future employment use.

iv. A 2 hectare primary school site and funding including provision for early years.

v. Contribution to cost of education land and buildings for children of secondary school age.

vi. On site community provision including village hall or meeting room(s), children’s centre accommodation possibly in association with but additional to school provision.

vii. The development of the site to be guided by a Master Plan, design guide and design principles, to be agreed by the Council.

viii. Provision of a layout which takes full account of the noise and air quality environment relative to the railway line, rail aggregates depot and waste management uses.

ix. Strategic/integrated approach to surface water management. x. Contributions to the delivery of the objectives of the Forest of Marston Vale xi. Pre-determination archaeological evaluation. xii. Improvements to transportation networks, including:

a. Pedestrian and cycle access to the A6 cycle route. b. Contribution towards the provision of traffic lights on A421 junction to

facilitate pedestrian and cycle movement. c. Contribution to Wixams station. d. Identification and safeguarding of a route for shuttle buses from the

parking area on the A6 to the Nirah site. xiii. Any other requirements in accordance with the Council’s policies and

strategies. Policy AD5 Land South of Ford End Road, Bedford Land south of Ford End Road, Bedford will be developed for a mix of residential and employment uses. Key principles of development include:- i. Provision of a mix of dwelling types and sizes. ii. 0.4 hectares of employment provision to be provided as managed workspace

and located to the north west of the Ford End Road link. iii. Assessment of the nature and extent of ground contamination and

preparation of a remediation strategy for the site including methods of disposing of contaminated material, measures to prevent the pollution of surface and ground water, and provisions for future monitoring, to be approved by the council.

iv. Submission of a comprehensive planning brief, to be agreed by the council in consultation with relevant property owners.

v. Provision of a layout which takes full account of the noise environment relative to both the railway line and the brewery.

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vi. Submission of a site specific Flood Risk Assessment along with appropriate mitigation proposals.

vii. Retention and enhancement of the land adjacent to the railway to improve biodiversity value.

viii. Improvements to transportation networks, including: a. Provision of a cycle and pedestrian link between Sustrans Route 51 along

the riverside and Ford End Road and provision for the safe crossing of Ford End Road.

b. Provision of a bus drop off point adjacent to Ford End Road on the eastern side of the site (in accordance with the council’s Bedford Town Centre Area Action Plan) to include bus shelters and real time information (or equivalent).

c. Provision of the Ford End Road link (alternative vehicular access between Havelock Street and Ford End Road).

d. Contributions to improvements at the Prebend Street junction. ix. Pre-determination archaeological evaluation x. Any other requirements in accordance with the council’s policies and

strategies. Policy AD6 Land East of Eastcotts Road, Bedford Land identified east of Eastcotts Road, Bedford will be developed for a mix of residential and employment uses. Key principles of development include: i. A mix of dwelling types and sizes to be accessed from Eastcotts Road. ii. Re-provision of employment floorspace in the form of up to 4 Class B1 and/or

B2 units on part of the northern section of the site, with access from Arkwright Road (subject to confirmation that satisfactory access can be achieved).

iii. Delivery of the remainder of the northern part of the site to be maintained and managed for public open space, with associated landscaping, to secure a buffer between the employment and residential uses within and adjoining the site.

iv. Dwellings to be integrated with existing development in terms of size and scale.

v. Improvements to transportation networks, including: a. A travel assessment to determine the impact of the development on

roundabouts at the junction of Eastcotts Road and Cardington Road and the junction of Eastcotts Road, Harrowden Road and Cambridge Road.

b. Provision of a cycle and pedestrian link between Eastcotts Road and the northern boundary of the site and contributions to a link between the site and Cardington Road.

vi. Pre-determination archaeological evaluation vii. Any other requirements in accordance with the council’s policies and

strategies. Policy AD7 Dallas Road, Kempston Land identified at Dallas Road, Kempston will be developed for residential use. Key principles of development include: i. A mix of dwelling types and sizes. ii. Provision of a layout which take full account of the noise environment in

relation to adjacent noise sources. iii. Improvements to transportation networks, including:

a. Pedestrian links to the bus stops and footways on Bedford Road. b. Provision of real time information (or equivalent) at bus stops in the

vicinity of the site. c. Improvements to Dallas Road and construction of a new road corridor

between Dallas Road and College Street, including all necessary and

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associated engineering works and landscaping to achieve an adoptable standard.

iv. Revised access arrangements to the self service car wash. v. Any other requirements in accordance with the council’s policies and

strategies. Policy AD8 St Bede’s School, Bedford Land and buildings identified at the former St Bede’s School, Bromham Road, Bedford will be developed for residential use. Key principles of development include: i. A mix of dwelling types and sizes which could include the provision of extra

care housing for older people. ii. Retention of open space and trees fronting Bromham Road iii. Retention of existing buildings of local importance. iv. On site layout and building design to have regard to existing buildings of local

importance and respect their setting. v. Dwellings to be integrated with existing development in terms of size and

scale. vi. Site to be accessed from Conduit Road or Conduit Road and The Avenue. vii. Archaeological investigations will be required as a condition of planning

permission. viii. Submission of a heritage statement setting out the potential impact of the

proposed development on the significance of any heritage assets affected. ix. Any other requirements in accordance with the council’s policies and

strategies. Policy AD9 Lansdowne Road, Warwick Avenue and Dynevor Road, Bedford Land at Lansdowne Road, Warwick Avenue and Dynevor Road, Bedford will be developed for residential and open space uses. Key principles of development include: i. Provision of a mix of dwelling types and sizes potentially including the

provision of extra care housing for older people. ii. Delivery and enhancement of public open space on the former tennis court

land parcel at Dynevor Road. iii. Pre-determination archaeological evaluation. iv. Submission of a heritage statement setting out the potential impact of the

proposed development on the significance of any heritage assets affected. v. Any other requirements in accordance with the council’s policies and

strategies. Policy AD10 Land at Medbury Farm, Elstow Land at Medbury Farm will be developed for class B1 business park use. Key principles of development include: i. 31 hectares business park. ii. Support for hotel associated with business use. iii. Design to respect local landscape priorities, with particular regard to retaining

and enhancing views of Elstow Abbey. iv. Delivery of Forest of Marston Vale planting on land south of the A421 (master

plan to be prepared and agreed with Forest of Marston Vale team). v. Provision of a green corridor incorporating a pedestrian and cycle route south

of the A421 west/east from the A6 to Bumpy Lane and the A600. vi. Submission of a site specific Flood Risk Assessment along with mitigation

proposals. vii. A strategic/integrated approach to surface water management viii. Pre-determination archaeological evaluation.

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ix. Improvement to transportation networks and specific highway concerns to be addressed. a. Pedestrian and cycle links required from south of A421 and A6 into

Bedford (north/south). b. Detailed information on connection to Wixams Northern and Central

Gateway roundabouts on the A6. c. Details of measures that will be implemented to prevent development

related traffic from using village roads in Elstow to access the site. d. Contribution towards the provision of traffic lights on A421 junction to

facilitate pedestrian and cycle movement e. Assessment of capacity at Cow Bridge junction.

x. Any other requirements in accordance with the council’s policies and strategies.

Policy AD11 Land at Bell Farm, Kempston Land at Bell Farm will be developed for a mix of classes B1 (a)(b) & (c), and B8 uses. Key principles of development include: i. Approx 18 hectares employment site. ii. Contribution to the delivery of the objectives of the Forest of Marston Vale –

particularly enhancing Bedford’s Green Gateway. iii. Deliver a section of the Bedford to Milton Keynes Waterway Park

incorporating canal, cycle and pedestrian paths (possibly Sustrans Route 51) through the site.

iv. A strategic/integrated approach to surface water management. v. Enhance/strengthen important gap between Bell Farm and Wootton. vi. Design to reflect site topography. vii. Provision of a high quality landmark/ gateway building at A421 junction viii. Pre-determination archaeological evaluation. ix. Improvements to transportation networks, including

a. Pedestrian and cycle access to facilities west of Kempston and Wootton. b. Direct left in/left out access to Bedford Western Bypass. c. Junction design to facilitate dualling of Bedford Western Bypass in the

future. x. Any other requirements in accordance with the council’s policies and

strategies. Policy AD12 Marston Vale Innovation Park Phase 2, Wootton Land adjacent to the Marston Vale Innovation Park will be developed for a mix of classes B1 (a) (b) & (c) and B2 uses. Key principles of development include: i. 10 hectares employment site. ii. Delivery of a section of the Bedford to Milton Keynes Waterway Park in

association with Phase 1, incorporating canal, cycle and pedestrian paths (possibly Sustrans Route 51).

iii. A strategic/integrated approach to surface water management. iv. Contribution to Forest of Marston Vale. v. Pre-determination archaeological evaluation. vi. Any other requirements in accordance with the council’s policies and

strategies. Policy AD13 Land at Cardington Cross, Bedford Land at Cardington Cross will be developed for a mix of classes B1, B2 and B8 uses. Key principles of development include: i. 7 hectares employment site. ii. Submission of a site specific flood risk assessment. iii. Access via the old Cambridge Road only.

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iv. Support for hotel associated with business use. v. Archaeological investigations will be required as a condition of planning

permission. vi. Improvements to transportation networks and specific highway concerns to be

addressed a. Improve pedestrian links including access to bus stops on A603. b. Assess impact on A5134/Wallis Way/site access roundabout. c. Assess impact on A5134/A603 roundabout. d. Assess impact on A603 & A600 grade separated junctions with A421.

vii. Any other requirements in accordance with the council’s policies and strategies.

Policy AD14 Manton Lane Reservoir Site, Bedford Land at Manton Lane will be developed for a mix of classes B2 and B8 uses. Key principles of development include: i. 1.6 hectares employment site. ii. Design to link into green access route around north/northwest of the town. iii. Improvements to transportation networks and highway concerns to be

addressed. a. Assess impact on Manton Lane/Brickhill Drive signal controlled junction. b. Assess impact on A6/Clapham Road/A5141 Shakespeare Rd/Manton

Lane roundabout. c. Investigate possibility of cycleway provision on Manton Lane.

iv. Any other requirements in accordance with the council’s policies and strategies.

Policy AD15 Land West of Manton Lane, Bedford Land west of Manton Lane will be developed for classes B1(a) (b) & (c) and B2 uses. Key principles of development include: i. Development area restricted by ridgeline – estimate about 6 hectares of the

site can accommodate development. ii. Landscape enhancement required along ridgeline to screen development.

Height of development close to ridgeline restricted to single storey (4.5m maximum).

iii. Compensate for loss of hedgerow required to create access. iv. Pre-determination archaeological evaluation. v. Improvements to transportation networks and highway concerns to be

addressed: a. Create new footway/verge on west side of Manton Lane to afford safe

pedestrian access to site. b. Provide section of green access route (for pedestrian and cyclists) around

north west of town. c. Assess impact on Manton Lane/Brickhill Drive signal controlled junction. d. Assess impact on A6/Clapham Road/A5141 Shakespeare Rd/Manton

Lane Roundabout. e. Investigate possibility of cycleway provision on Manton Lane

vi. Any other requirements in accordance with the council’s policies and strategies.

Policy AD16 Land West of the B530, Kempston Land west of the B530 will be developed for a mix of classes B1, B2, B8 employment use. Key development principles include: i. 3.4 hectares employment site. ii. Submission of a site specific flood risk assessment.

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iii. High standard of building design and landscaping to reflect importance of this gateway location.

iv. Access from the old A421. v. Pedestrian links to the Interchange Retail Park. vi. Contribution to the delivery of the objectives of the Forest of Marston Vale. vii. Pre-determination archaeological evaluation. viii. Any other requirements in accordance with the council’s policies and

strategies. Policy AD17 Land at Cut Throat Lane, Bedford Land at Cut Throat Lane will be developed to provide a hotel. Key principles of development include: i. Single hotel building in a parkland setting to replace the hotel site approved in

the saved H8 development brief. ii. Landscape appraisal will guide the location and design of the building. iii. Hotel to come forward in association with the adjacent employment

development. If brought forward ahead of the employment development, an assessment will be required to determine impact on the delivery of sequentially preferable town centre hotel commitments.

iv. Financial contribution towards the delivery of the western bypass phase 2. v. Financial contribution towards the park and ride facility. vi. Financial contribution towards establishment of the proposed country park. vii. Planning application to be accompanied by a transport assessment and travel

plan for the site. viii. Any other requirements in accordance with the council’s policies and

strategies. ix. Retention of a wildlife corridor beside the river, to be kept free from

development. x. Pre-determination archaeological evaluation. Policy AD18 Land at Manton Lane, Bedford Land at Manton Lane shall be developed for Travelling Showpeople. Key principles of development include: i. Development to avoid overhead powerline constraint ii. Buildings restricted to 1 storey in height (4.5m) to reduce impact iii. Landscape enhancement required along ridgeline (on and off site). iv. Improvements to pedestrian access and cycle network. v. Public transport improvements. vi. Pre-determination archaeological evaluation. vii. Any other requirements in accordance with the council’s policies and

strategies. Policy AD19 Land at Bedford Road, Great Barford Land identified at Bedford Road, Great Barford will be developed for a primary care facility and residential use. Key principles of the development include: i. Residential development of approximately 1.4 ha. ii. Land to provide a site for a primary care facility of approximately 0.4 hectares,

on the frontage to Bedford Rd together with a financial contribution towards the primary care facility.

iii. Improvements to transportation networks, including: a. New footway on Bedford Rd. b. Provision for a potential pedestrian link to Silver Street. c. Exploring the opportunity for school bus stop and drop off parking and

incorporate provision if appropriate. d. New junction with right turn lane.

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e. Improvements to pedestrian and cycle networks including crossing of Bedford Rd.

iv. Preparation of a transport assessment and travel plan for the site. v. Flood risk assessment to be submitted at planning application stage to

address surface water drainage. vi. Pre-determination archaeological evaluation vii. Any other requirements in accordance with the council’s policies and

strategies. Policy AD20 Land at The Lakes, Roxton Road, Wyboston Land identified at The Lakes, Wyboston will be developed for a holiday fishing village. Key principles of the development include: i. Provision of single storey waterside chalets of a design and number sensitive

to the rural character of the site. ii. A single café/fishing tackle shop of a size commensurate with the scale of

development proposed. iii. Retention of trees on the lake edge together with provision of additional

landscaping and replacement hedgerow on the Roxton Road frontage where the existing hedgerow is affected by the formation of the access.

iv. Chalets, pedestrian accesses and fishing piers to have level access, to facilitate use by the disabled.

v. Access to be provided from Roxton Road to meet visibility standards and speed reduction measures on Roxton Road as appropriate.

vi. Pre-determination archaeological evaluation. vii. A Heritage Statement comprising an assessment of the effect of the

proposals on the setting and significance of designated and undesignated heritage assets, in particular scheduled monuments 11555 (Chawston Manor moated site with associated fish pond) & 11531 (Moated enclosure and associated building platforms).

viii. Ecological survey management plan with measures to protect and promote biodiversity of the site to be prepared.

ix. Submission of a ground contamination survey to be required as a condition of any planning consent.

x. Details of foul water drainage to be clarified. xi. Any other requirements in accordance with the council’s policies and

strategies. Policy AD21 Land North of Ravensden Road, Salph End, Renhold Land identified north of Ravensden Road, Renhold will be developed for affordable housing. Key principles of development include: i. Provision of no more than two dwellings. ii. Dwellings to relate to existing adjacent development in terms of size and

scale. iii. Existing road access from Abbey Close to be utilised for the new dwellings if

highway standards can be met or other suitable alternative agreed. iv. Legal agreement to control occupation and management. v. Any other requirements in accordance with the council’s policies and

strategies. Policy AD22 Land off Church Rd, Willington Land identified off Church Road, Willington will be developed for a mix of recreational holiday lodges and education use. Key principles of the development include: i. An ecological survey to be carried out to inform an assessment of the number

of recreational holiday lodges the land can accommodate.

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ii. Ecological Management Plan with appropriate ecological mitigation measures to protect ecological values on the land. This may include ownership/management arrangements and should investigate opportunities for public access.

iii. Provision of a limited number of small single storey holiday lodges of a design appropriate to a rural area and with the remainder of the area remaining largely undeveloped.

iv. Land to provide an extension to the Willington school site – extent of site extension to be defined subsequent to the ecological survey.

v. Any facilities identified as needed for the Bedford to Sandy (Sustrans Route 51) cycleway – e.g signing, rest place with seating.

vi. Provision of a satisfactory safe vehicular and pedestrian access to the site. vii. Contribution to the delivery of the objectives of the Forest of Marston Vale

and Bedford River Valley Park. viii. Any other requirements in accordance with the council’s policies and

strategies Policy AD23 Bedford River Valley Park Enabling Development In order to deliver the watersports lake and other leisure opportunities which are an integral part of the Bedford River Valley Park, land identified to the north of the A603 will be developed for the following mix of uses: • Employment - including B1 uses for the provision of a business park incorporating

opportunities for research and development • Leisure - including a hotel & conference centre and entertainment space for

businesses including private sports club and restaurant facilities • Continuing care retirement community - including the provision for on site care

and other facilities along with ancillary office accommodation. • Education - provision of additional research and teaching and outdoor space to

meet the needs of expanding and improving educational institutions. Viability will be addressed in detail when a planning application is submitted. The required viability assessment will set out the proven cost of delivery of the watersports lake along with any additional qualifying expenditure as may be agreed by the local planning authority required for the delivery of the Bedford River Valley Park against the scale, nature and value of proposed enabling development. Key principles of development are to include: i. Provision of a comprehensive Master Plan for the enabling development. ii. Provision of a detailed phasing plan for the development that provides

delivery of the watersports lake on part of the first phase. iii. Provision of two access points on the A603 to serve both the enabling

development and the wider park area. iv. Preparation of a transport assessment and travel plan for the site including

the provision of mitigation measures as appropriate. v. Improvements to transportation networks, including a safe pedestrian and

cycle crossing across the A603 linking with existing cycle and pedestrian routes.

vi. An assessment of the site-specific ecological impacts of the proposals to be undertaken prior to the submission of the planning application.

vii. Identify opportunities to enhance biodiversity and green infrastructure. viii. A heritage statement to be provided to include a detailed assessment of the

potential impact of the proposed development on the significance of any heritage assets affected, including setting and landscape context.

ix. Compliance with and contributions towards the delivery of the comprehensive heritage access, management and interpretation strategy for the Bedford River Valley Park archaeological landscape.

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x. Archaeological investigations may be required as a condition of any forthcoming planning permission for enabling development.

xi. Built development will only be permitted within the area shown on the Proposals Map.

xii. Any other requirements in accordance with the council’s policies and strategies.

Designation policies Policy AD1 Sustainable Design and Construction Proposals for sustainable buildings will be encouraged in the borough. All new residential developments in the borough of 10 dwellings and over or 0.3 hectares and over are required to meet full Code for Sustainable Homes level 4 or equivalent as a minimum and to achieve zero carbon emissions as regulated by Building Regulation (or alternative definition of zero carbon as subsequently adopted by the Government). If it is not feasible to achieve zero carbon emissions on-site, developers will be required to contribute to the council’s Carbon Offset Fund. All new non-domestic developments in the borough over 1000 square metres gross internal floorspace are required to achieve BREEAM “Very Good” standard or equivalent as a minimum. These requirements will apply unless it can be demonstrated that they would make the development unviable. Policy AD24 Green Infrastructure Opportunity Zones The green infrastructure network is divided into six opportunity zones as shown on the Proposals Map. The opportunity zones reflect those areas in the borough where there is the greatest potential to maintain and enhance the multifunctional nature of green infrastructure across the five themes of landscape, historic environment, biodiversity, accessible green space and access routes. Where appropriate, development will deliver or contribute to the protection, enhancement and/or creation of green infrastructure in accordance with the priorities set out for each opportunity zone. Policy AD25 Forest of Marston Vale In appropriate circumstances (and within the area designated on the Proposals Map) the council will expect proposals to address the aims of the project as set out in the Forest Plan 2000 and seek contributions towards its implementation, including the 30% woodland cover target. Policy AD26 Bedford River Valley Park The council will seek the creation of the Bedford River Valley Park as an area where opportunities exist for landscape enhancement, nature conservation, recreation, access improvements, increased public access and the preservation and enhancement of the historic environment in accordance with the Framework Plan. When development opportunities arise within the area shown on the Proposals Map, development will be expected to contribute towards the creation and delivery of the Bedford River Valley Park. Policy AD27 Bedford to Milton Keynes Waterway Park The council will support the creation of the Bedford to Milton Keynes Waterway Park as a strategic green infrastructure link benefitting the borough as a whole, but

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particularly important to the delivery of sustainable growth in the Northern Marston Vale. The indicative route of the Waterway Park is shown on the Proposals Map. Where appropriate, development will be expected to contribute towards the creation and delivery of the Waterway Park. Pre-determination archaeological evaluation is required. Policy AD28 Provision of Open Space and Built Facilities in Association with New Development Where new housing development is of a type likely to create a demand, the council will require provision of open space and built facilities in accordance with the standards in the following table. Where possible, provision should be made on-site. Where this is not possible, practical or preferred, a financial contribution in lieu of on-site provision will be required. Such contributions will be secured through planning obligations and will fund improvements to existing facilities or will be pooled to provide new facilities. Provision should include a contribution towards the cost of future management and maintenance. Policy AD29 Kempston District Centre – new retail facilities Proposals for new retail facilities within the district centre will be supported if: i. New development would enhance the appearance of the district centre. ii. New development will be of a scale and form which is appropriate to the

convenience and service function of the district centre. iii. The applicant can demonstrate that the scale and form of the development

proposed and its function could not be more appropriately accommodated within Bedford town centre.

iv. The applicant can demonstrate that the proposals would not have an adverse impact on Bedford town centre.

v. Satisfactory servicing and car parking facilities can be provided to avoid on street congestion and to protect highway safety.

vi. The proposal will be accessible by a choice of means of transport other than the private car.

Policy AD30 Kempston District Centre – changes of use In the designated district centre, the council will only grant planning permission for the change of use from retail sales to other uses where the applicant can demonstrate to the satisfaction of the council that the vitality and viability of the centre would not be adversely affected and it will offer a range of everyday community, shopping and employment opportunities. Policy AD31 Local centres – new retail facilities Proposals for new shops within existing local centres or in existing or proposed new residential areas where there is a local need will be supported if the proposal is of a scale appropriate to the role and function of the local centre and is intended to principally serve the needs of the local community. Policy AD32 Key Service Centres In Key Service Centres, the council will only grant planning permission for the change of use of essential local shops to other uses when: i. Alternative essential local shops are available within the centre so that at

least three different essential local shop types remain available. ii. The applicant can demonstrate to the satisfaction of the council that the

current (or last) use is no longer economically viable (including in appropriate

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circumstances financial information); this can best be demonstrated by providing evidence that the property has been actively marketed.

iii. The applicant can demonstrate to the satisfaction of the council that the vitality and viability of the centre would not be adversely affected.

Essential local shops types are: Type 1 - food shops, such as: small supermarkets, butchers, greengrocers. Type 2 - newsagents and confectionery shops. Type 3 - pharmacies and dispensing chemists. Type 4 - cafes, restaurants, hot food takeaways and public houses. Policy AD33 Other Growth Area Local Centres Within Other Growth Area Local Centres designated on the Proposals Map, the council will only grant planning permission for the change of use of essential local shops to other uses when: i. Alternative essential local shops are available within the centre so that at

least three different essential local shop types remain available. ii. The applicant can demonstrate to the satisfaction of the council that the

current (or last) use is no longer economically viable (including in appropriate circumstances financial information); this can best be demonstrated by providing evidence that the property has been actively marketed.


Essential local shops types are: Type 1 - food shops, such as: small supermarkets, butchers, greengrocers. Type 2 - newsagents and confectionery shops. Type 3 - pharmacies and dispensing chemists. Type 4 - cafes, restaurants, hot food takeaways and public houses. Policy AD34 Other Defined Retail Centres In Other Defined Retail Centres, the council will only grant planning permission for the change of use of essential local shops to other uses when: i. Alternative essential local shops are available within the centre so that at

least one essential local shop type remains available. ii. The applicant can demonstrate to the satisfaction of the council that the



Essential local shops types are: Type 1 - food shops, such as: small supermarkets, butchers, greengrocers. Type 2 - newsagents and confectionery shops. Type 3 - pharmacies and dispensing chemists. Type 4 - cafes, restaurants, hot food takeaways and public houses. Policy AD35 Individual Shops and Undefined Retail Centres The council will only grant planning permission for the change of use of individual essential local shops (not within a defined centre) to other uses when: i. There are other essential local shops within 10 minutes walking time (half a

mile) providing a similar service. ii. The applicant can demonstrate to the satisfaction of the council that the


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Essential local shops are: food shops, such as: small supermarkets, butchers, greengrocers; newsagents and confectionery shops, pharmacies and dispensing chemists; cafes, restaurants, hot food takeaways and public houses. Policy AD36 All Shop Units The council will only grant planning permission for the change of use of a shop unit within Classes A1 to A5 of the Town and Country Planning (Use Classes) Order 1987 (as subsequently amended) to a use outside of these Classes when evidence provided by the applicant shows that there is no under-provision of local shopping facilities in that area, taking account of the potential role and function of the shop unit or centre in the retail hierarchy. Policy AD37 Road Schemes The council supports improvements to the local highway network including the St Johns Area Relief Scheme, the Ford End Road link and the Dallas Road link. Policy AD38 Pedestrian Routes The council will require the protection, enhancement and promotion of pedestrian routes and facilities. The council will seek the provision of new pedestrian routes and facilities which are safe, convenient, attractive, and which link local facilities, particularly in association with major development and transportation proposals. The provision of routes which form part of the Green Wheel or other outdoor access routes, include safer routes to schools and include new river crossings at Honey Hill Road / Hillgrounds, adjacent to Britannia Ironworks, at Batts Ford and in the vicinity of Fenlake Meadows / Priory Park will be sought. Policy AD39 Park and Ride Facilities The council will seek the provision of high quality car parking facilities at park and ride sites for long stay users as indicated on the Proposals Map. Where possible the provision of such facilities will be in association with public transport priority measures and busways. In appropriate cases the provision of sites and developer funding towards the cost of park and ride facilities and services will be sought. Policy AD40 Commercial Vehicle Parking and Motorist Facilities The council will determine any planning applications for commercial vehicle parking facilities and motorists’ facilities against the following criteria: i. The impact of the proposal on residential amenities. ii. The safety and convenience of the proposed access arrangements. iii. The effect of the proposals on the environment. iv. The quality of the proposed design and landscaping. v. The degree of need. vi. Site availability and location in close proximity to the strategic network. Policy AD41 Cycling The council will require the protection, enhancement and promotion of cycle routes and facilities including those shown on the Proposals Map, and seek the provision of new routes and facilities for cyclists which are safe, convenient and attractive, particularly in association with major development and transportation proposals. River and rail crossings will include provision for cyclists where appropriate. Policy AD42 Village Open Spaces and Views Development will not be permitted on land designated as a village open space or view as shown on the Proposals Map. Open spaces have been identified as village open spaces / views where they meet one or more of the following criteria:

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A. they are publicly accessible and valuable to the local community for sport, recreation or as amenity space;

B. they give identity to a settlement or village by helping to retain its form and reflect past history (examples include village greens);

C. they provide a gap or break in the frontage which contributes to the character of a settlement for example by providing a view into a village which forms part of the village setting, or a view into open countryside establishing the relationship between the form of the village and the countryside beyond;

D. the gap provides visual relief in an otherwise built up area punctuating the street scene;

E. the open space assists the transition between village and countryside providing a soft edge to the village which is pleasing visually.

Policy AD43 Urban area boundary The council seeks to protect the character of Bedford and Kempston, and to protect the countryside from inappropriate development by defining on the Proposals Map the extent of the urban area. The urban area boundary encloses the area where policies relevant to built-up areas apply and beyond which policies relevant to the countryside apply. Policy AD44 Local Gaps Areas which have particular importance as a local gap are identified on the Proposals Map. Development will not be permitted in or adjoining a local gap which, because of the nature of the proposal: i. diminishes the gap physically or visually; or ii. changes its character adversely; or iii. compromises the integrity of the gap, either individually or cumulatively with

other existing or proposed development; or iv. harms the character, setting or identity of any settlements separated by the

gap. Proposers of development in or adjoining a local gap will be expected to demonstrate to the satisfaction of the local planning authority that their proposal does not conflict with the objectives of this policy. Policy AD45 Urban Open Spaces and Gaps Urban open spaces and gaps have particular importance in maintaining the function, character and identity of an area. They are identified on the Proposals Map. Development will not be permitted in identified urban open spaces where it would result in the loss of or adversely affect one or more of the following: i. An equipped play area, playing field or other sports facilities. ii. A park, garden or other amenity space. iii. Allotment/community garden space or a cemetery/churchyard. iv. A Local Nature Reserve, County Wildlife Site or Site of Special Scientific

Interest (SSSI). v. Landscaping that contributes to streetscape or character of an area. vi. A buffer between different land uses. vii. A green break in an otherwise built up area. viii. A visual break to safeguard local distinctiveness (including views). ix. Part of the overall network of green spaces and links. The council will seek in association with new development, the provision of new and/or the enhancement of existing open space. Exceptionally, limited development may be acceptable within urban open spaces. This could include development such as a café in a park or clubhouse for a sporting group which would be ancillary to the existing use or function of the open space. In

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these exceptional circumstances, the council will expect compensatory open space to be provided or alternatively, the enhancement of open space in the locality. Development will not be permitted in identified gaps Policy AD46 Former Land Settlement Association Area Within the former Land Settlement Association Area defined on the Proposals Map, development will only be permitted where applications: i. Maintain the distinctive spatial pattern, layout and scale of plots. ii. Respect the style, scale, appearance and orientation of the original dwellings

and separation between them. iii. Protect residential amenity from inappropriate disturbance. iv. Do not result in unacceptable levels of traffic generation.

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Appendix 11 Sustainability appraisal of sites allocated in the Plan for Submission The complete document, the Sustainability Appraisal of Sites, is published as a separate background document to the Plan. This appraises all the sites that were put forward by landowners and developers for consideration by the council. The appraisal has been updated as additional information and sites have been submitted and assessed. Policy AD2 Land at Hall End Road. Wootton Policy AD3 Land at Old Ford End Road, Queens Park, Bedford Policy AD4 Wixams Northern Expansion Policy AD5 Land South of Ford End Road, Bedford Policy AD6 Land East of Eastcotts Road, Bedford Policy AD7 Dallas Road, Kempston Policy AD8 St Bede’s School, Bedford Policy AD9 Lansdowne Road, Warwick Avenue and Dynevor Road, Bedford Policy AD10 Land at Medbury Farm, Elstow Policy AD11 Land at Bell Farm, Kempston Policy AD12 Marston Vale Innovation Park Phase 2, Wootton Policy AD13 Land at Cardington Cross, Bedford Policy AD14 Manton Lane Reservoir Site, Bedford Policy AD15 Land West of Manton Lane, Bedford Policy AD16 Land West of the B530, Kempston Policy AD17 Land at Cut Throat Lane, Bedford Policy AD18 Land at Manton Lane, Bedford Policy AD19 Land at Bedford Road, Great Barford Policy AD20 Land at The Lakes, Roxton Road, Wyboston Policy AD21 Land North of Ravensden Road, Salph End, Renhold Policy AD22 Land off Church Rd, Willington Policy AD23 Bedford River Valley Park Enabling Development Key to appraisal effects:







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POLICY AD2 Site Number … 44 Address Land at Hall End Road, Wootton Location Extension to a growth area key service centre Site Promoter’s Proposal Housing (Up to 125 @ 14 per net acre) SA Objectives Assessment Comments 1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions ++ Local services and facilities within walking distance; Good


~ Flood Risk Zone 1


~ Site is unlikely to have a direct, physical impact on any designated heritage assets. However, there remains potential for either an indirect effect on these and/or an effect on non-designated heritage assets, which have yet to be assessed










320


~



+ Occupiers of site able to participate in existing community


~


x Distance to town centre services, facilities and cultural opportunities, and public transport hubs; Local services and facilities within walking distance; Good frequency of public transport

16. Strong local identity and sense of place x Scale of development significant relative to existing settlement 17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime ~ Summary of assessment Positive effect where scale of development should provide a housing mix. Negative effects due to use of greenfield land. Negative effects due to increase in vehicle movements. Summary of mitigation proposals Significant improvement in public transport may mitigate number of private trips. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects Cumulative effect on settlement character and local transport network if all other proposals around settlement are implemented. No secondary effect. POLICY AD3

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Site Number … 376 Address 2 Old Ford End Road, Bedford Location Within the existing urban area or a growth area key service centre Site Promoter’s Proposal Housing (14 units/55 units per hectare) SA Objectives Assessment Comments 1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions +++ Proximity to Bedford town centre services, facilities and cultural



~ Flood Risk Zone 1









7. Provide a range of quality homes for all, especially +

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++ Occupiers of site able to participate in nearby town centre services, facilities and cultural opportunities, and public transport hubs


x Loss of employment land with proposed land use change


+++ Proximity to town centre services, facilities and cultural opportunities, and public transport hubs; Local services and facilities within walking distance; Good frequency of public transport

16. Strong local identity and sense of place + Site easily incorporated into existing settlement pattern 17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime + Use of derelict/underutilised land in the urban area Summary of assessment Positive effects due to use of brownfield land, where development coherent with the existing built environment and where use of derelict/underutilised land may strengthen communities and reduce fear of crime. Positive effects due to local walkability and public transport levels of service, and distances may reduce need for private vehicle movements. Positive effects where future communities have good access to existing communities, social infrastructure and a range of recreation. Negative effect where employment land lost. Summary of mitigation proposals N/A Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects

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No secondary or cumulative effects POLICY AD4 Site Number … 191 Address Northern Expansion Area, Wixams Location Other location in the growth area Site Promoter’s Proposal Housing (approx. 1,400 dwellings @ av. density of 47 dph); Employment (35,000sqm to 52,000sqm business park); Retailing; Hotel; Recreation/Leisure; Mixed use SA Objectives Assessment Comments 1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions ? Subject to completion of proposed new town centre services


~ Flood Risk Zone 1







324






?





+ Site accessible to committed development, which will take a number of years to complete.



14. Improve the skills of the labour force + Subject to scope and scale of employment generated 15. Minimise growth in car usage, reduce the need to travel and promote the shift to more sustainable modes of transport


16. Strong local identity and sense of place ~ 17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime ~ Summary of assessment Positive effect where scale of development should provide a housing mix and potential for local employment. Negative effect due to use of greenfield land. Unknown effect on private vehicle movements and those without access to a private car. Summary of mitigation proposals N/A Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No secondary effects. Positive cumulative effects on new town proposal.

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POLICY AD5 Site Number …60 Address Land at Ford End Road, Bedford Location Within the existing urban area or a growth area key service centre Site Promoter’s Proposal Housing (approx 220 units at 45 dph) SA Objectives Assessment Comments 1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions +++ Proximity to town centre services and facilities, and public



x Flood Risk Zone 2











326









~



16. Strong local identity and sense of place + Site easily incorporated into existing settlement 17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime ++ Active use of derelict/underutilised land in the urban area Summary of assessment Positive effects due to use of brownfield land and where use of derelict/underutilised land may strengthen communities and reduce fear of crime. Positive effects where future communities have good access to existing communities, social infrastructure and a range of recreation. Positive effects due to local walkability and public transport levels of service; and distances may reduce need for private vehicle movements. Summary of mitigation proposals Flood Risk Assessment needed to determine possible mitigation. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No secondary or cumulative effects.

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POLICY AD6 Site Number …68 Address Land rear of Eastcotts Road, Bedford Location Within the existing urban area or a growth area key service centre Site Promoter’s Proposal Housing (up to 130 units at 30-35 dph) SA Objectives Assessment Comments 1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions +++ Proximity to town centre services, facilities and cultural



~ Flood Risk Zone 1








+++ Proximity to town centre services, facilities and cultural opportunities, and public transport hubs; Limited local services

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and facilities within walking distance; Good frequency of public transport; Site easily incorporated into existing settlement pattern













+++ Proximity to town centre services, facilities and cultural opportunities, and public transport hubs; Limited services and facilities within walking distance; Good frequency of public transport

16. Strong local identity and sense of place + Site easily incorporated into existing settlement pattern 17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime ++ Active use of derelict/underutilised land in urban area Summary of assessment Positive effect where scale of development should provide a housing mix. Positive effects due to use of brownfield land. Positive effects due to local walkability and public transport levels of service, and distances may reduce need for private vehicle movements. Positive effects where future communities have good access to existing communities, social infrastructure and a range of recreation. Negative effect where employment activity lost. Summary of mitigation proposals

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N/A. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No secondary or cumulative effects. POLICY AD7 Site Number … 83 Address Dallas Road, Kempston Location Within the existing urban area or a growth area key service centre Site Promoter’s Proposal Housing (up to 150 @ 50 dph) SA Objectives Assessment Comments 1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions +++ Proximity to town centre services, facilities and cultural



x Flood Risk Zone 2



4. Create, conserve, protect and enhance the Borough’s + Previously developed land

330


















16. Strong local identity and sense of place + Site easily incorporated into existing settlement pattern 17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime ++ Active use of derelict/underutilised land in the urban area Summary of assessment

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Positive effect where scale of development should provide a housing mix. Positive effects due to local walkability and public transport levels of service, and distances may reduce need for private vehicle movements. Positive effects due to use of brownfield land and where use of derelict/underutilised land may strengthen communities and reduce fear of crime. Positive effects where future communities have good access to existing communities, social infrastructure and a range of recreation. Negative effect due to flood risk. Negative effect where employment activity lost. Summary of mitigation proposals Flood Risk Assessment needed to determine possible mitigation. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No secondary or cumulative effects. POLICY AD8 Site Number …A007 Address Former St Bede’s School, Bromham Road, Bedford Location Within the existing urban area or a growth area key service centre Site Promoter’s Proposal Housing (planning permission 104 extra care units) SA Objectives Assessment Comments 1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions +++ Proximity town centre services, facilities and cultural



332


+ Proposal include measures to protect or enhance known heritage assets






+++ Proximity to Bedford town centre services, facilities and cultural opportunities, and public transport hubs; Good frequency of public transport







10. Meet the needs of a changing population +++ Proximity to town centre services, facilities and cultural opportunities, and public transport hubs; Good frequency of public transport




~



16. Strong local identity and sense of place + Site easily incorporated into existing settlement pattern. 17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime ~

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Summary of assessment Positive effect where scale of development should provide a housing mix. Positive effects where future communities have good access to existing communities, social infrastructure and a range of recreation. Positive effects where distances may reduce need for private vehicle movements. Positive effect due to use of brownfield land and where development coherent with the existing built environment. Summary of mitigation proposals N/A Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No secondary of cumulative effects. POLICY AD9 Site Number …72, 73, 74 Address Lansdowne Road, Bedford Location Within the existing urban area or a growth area key service centre Site Promoter’s Proposal Housing (220 – 240 dwellings at 100 dph) SA Objectives Assessment Comments 1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions +++ Proximity to town centre services, facilities and cultural

opportunities, and public transport hubs 2. Reduce the risk of flooding including adapting to the impacts of climate change

~ Flood Risk Zone 1

3. Protect and enhance the built historic features and cultural ? Proposal does not include measures to protect or enhance

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heritage of the Borough known heritage assets further information/assessment required 4. Create, conserve, protect and enhance the Borough’s natural features, distinctive local environments, habitats and species





+++ Proximity to town centre services, facilities and cultural opportunities, and public transport hubs;







10. Meet the needs of a changing population +++ Proximity to town centre services, facilities and cultural opportunities, and public transport hubs




~


+++ Proximity to town centre services, facilities and cultural opportunities, and public transport hubs

16. Strong local identity and sense of place + Site easily incorporated into existing settlement pattern 17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime ++ Use of derelict/underutilised land in the urban area Summary of assessment Positive effects due to local walkability and public transport levels of service, and distances may reduce need for private vehicle movements. Positive effects due to use of a brownfield land and where use of derelict/underutilised land may strengthen communities and reduce fear of crime. Positive effect where development should provide a housing mix. Positive effects where future communities have good access to existing communities, social infrastructure and a range of recreation.

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Summary of mitigation proposals Any future development must have particular regard to character of Conservation Area. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No secondary or cumulative effects. POLICY AD10 Site Number … 150, 151, 152 Address Land at Medbury Farm, south A421, Elstow Location Extension to the urban area Site Promoter’s Proposal Employment (B1 - 225,000m²/2,400,000 sq ft); Recreation/Leisure SA Objectives Assessment Comments 1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions x Limited local services and facilities within walking distance;




? Proposal does not include measures to protect or enhance known heritage assets, further information/assessment required



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x Limited local services and facilities within walking distance; Good frequency of public transport


~




~



? Subject to assessment and implementation of recommendations through design of development


? Subject to the scope and scale of employment generated

14. Improve the skills of the labour force ? Subject to the scope and scale of employment generated 15. Minimise growth in car usage, reduce the need to travel and promote the shift to more sustainable modes of transport


16. Strong local identity and sense of place ~ 17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime ~ Summary of assessment Some positive effects due to potential for local employment but negative effect where business use proposed outside Bedford town centre. Negative effects due to use of greenfield land and flood risk. Negative effects due to increase in vehicle movements. Summary of mitigation proposals Significant improvement in the coverage of public transport may mitigate number of private trips. Flood Risk Assessment needed to determine possible mitigation. Any future development must have regard to heritage assets. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects

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Negative cumulative effects on village/urban edge and Bedford town centre. No secondary effects. POLICY AD11 Site Number … 176 Address Land at Bell Farm, Kempston Rural Location Extension to the urban area Site Promoter’s Proposal Employment; Recreation/Leisure; Hotel SA Objectives Assessment Comments 1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions ? Subject to completion of nearby committed development 2. Reduce the risk of flooding including adapting to the impacts of climate change









? Subject to completion of nearby committed development

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~


~


~

10. Meet the needs of a changing population ?

Subject to completion of nearby committed development




? Subject to the scale and scope of employment generated; Concentration of tourism activity away from the town centre

14. Improve the skills of the labour force + Subject to the scale and scope of employment generated 15. Minimise growth in car usage, reduce the need to travel and promote the shift to more sustainable modes of transport


16. Strong local identity and sense of place ? Subject to assessment and implementation of recommendations through design of development

17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime ~ Summary of assessment Some positive effects due to potential for local employment but negative effect where business use proposed outside Bedford town centre. Negative effect due to flood risk, use of greenfield land and distance of development from existing communities. Levels of impact on private vehicle movements and those without access to a private car unknown. Opportunity exists for improvement to pedestrian and cycle access to facilities. Summary of mitigation proposals Flood Risk Assessment needed to determine possible mitigation. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No secondary or cumulative effects.

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POLICY AD12 Site Number … 195 Address Land at Fields road (Phase 2 Employment), Wootton Location Extension to a growth area key service centre Site Promoter’s Proposal Employment (B1 & B2 - 295,000 sq ft gross/250,000 sq ft net) SA Objectives Assessment Comments 1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions ? Subject to completion of nearby committed development 2. Reduce the risk of flooding including adapting to the impacts of climate change

~ Flood Risk Zone 1










~


340


~

10. Meet the needs of a changing population ? Subject of completion of nearby committed development 11. Promote community involvement by all groups in society in place shaping



? Subject to the scale and scope of employment generated


? Distance to town centre services, facilities and cultural opportunities, and public transport hubs; subject to completion of nearby committed development

16. Strong local identity and sense of place ~ Site will easily incorporate with nearby committed development 17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime ~ Summary of assessment Positive effects due to potential for local employment. Negative effect due to use of greenfield land. Unknown impact on private vehicle movements. Summary of mitigation proposals Significant improvement in public transport may mitigate any increase in number of private trips. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects Cumulative effect on settlement character and local transport network if all other proposals around settlement are implemented. No secondary effects. POLICY AD13 Site Number …24

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Address Apex Site, Cardington Cross, Bedford Location Within the existing urban area or a growth area key service centre Site Promoter’s Proposal Mixed Use; Employment (B1, B2 and B8 - floorspace unknown); Hotel; Car showroom SA Objectives Assessment Comments 1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions x Limited local services and facilities within walking distance;


x Flood Risk Zone 2










~


~


~

10. Meet the needs of a changing population x Limited local services and facilities within walking distance;

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Good frequency of public transport 11. Promote community involvement by all groups in society in place shaping

+ Occupiers able to participate in existing community


+ Future employment opportunities with proposed land use.



16. Strong local identity and sense of place + Site easily incorporated into existing settlement pattern 17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime ~ Summary of assessment Some positive effects due to potential for local employment. Negative effects due to use of greenfield land and flood risk. Negative effects due to increase in vehicle movements. Summary of mitigation proposals Significant improvement in the coverage of public transport may mitigate number of private trips. Flood Risk Assessment needed to determine possible mitigation. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects Negative cumulative effects on Bedford town centre. No secondary effects. POLICY AD14 Site Number …78 Address Reservoir Site, Manton Lane, Bedford Location

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Within existing urban area or a growth area key service centre Site Promoter’s Proposal Employment - B2 / B8 (estimated 1.6 ha gross) SA Objectives Assessment Comments 1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions ++ Proximity to town centre services, facilities and cultural



~ Flood Risk Zone 1










~





10. Meet the needs of a changing population ++ Proximity to Bedford town centre services, facilities and cultural

344








16. Strong local identity and sense of place + Site easily incorporated into existing settlement pattern 17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime ++ Active use of derelict/underutilised land in the urban area Summary of assessment Positive effects due to use of brownfield land and where use of derelict/underutilised land may strengthen communities and reduce fear of crime. Positive effects due to local walkability and public transport levels of service, and distances may reduce need for private vehicle movements. Positive effects where future communities have good access to existing communities, social infrastructure and a range of recreation. Positive effects due to potential for local employment. Summary of mitigation proposals N/A Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No secondary or cumulative effects POLICY AD15

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Site Number …67 Address Land rear of Manton Industrial Estate, Bedford Location Extension to the urban area Site Promoter’s Proposal Employment: B1/B2 (office, research, light industrial) and B8 (distribution; floor spaces unknown) SA Objectives Assessment Comments 1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions ++ Local services and facilities not within walking distance; Good


~ Flood Risk Zone 1








++ Local services and facilities not within walking distance; Good frequency of public transport


~



9. Provide social infrastructure for all ages and accessible ++ Proximity to Bedford town centre services, facilities and cultural

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services and facilities opportunities, and public transport hubs; 10. Meet the needs of a changing population ++ Proximity to Bedford town centre services, facilities and cultural








16. Strong local identity and sense of place ~ 17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime ~ Summary of assessment Positive effects due to potential for local employment. Positive effects due to public transport levels of service, and distances may reduce need for private vehicle movements. Positive effects where future communities have good access to existing communities, social infrastructure and a range of recreation. Negative effect due to use of greenfield land. Summary of mitigation proposals Significant improvement in coverage of public transport may mitigate number of private vehicle trips. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No secondary or cumulative effects. POLICY AD16 Site Number … A015

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Address Land west of the B530, Kempston Location Within the existing urban area or a growth area key service centre Site Promoter’s Proposal Employment SA Objectives Assessment Comments 1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions x Limited local services and facilities within walking distance;












~





348





+ Future employment opportunities with proposed land use



16. Strong local identity and sense of place + Site easily incorporated within existing settlement pattern. 17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime ~ Summary of assessment Positive effects where distances may reduce need for private vehicle movements. Positive effects where future communities have good access to existing communities, social infrastructure and a range of recreation. Positive effects due to the potential for local employment. Negative effects due to use of greenfield land and flood risk. Summary of mitigation proposals Flood Risk Assessment needed to determine possible mitigation. Significant improvement in coverage of public transport may mitigate number of private trips. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No secondary or cumulative effects. POLICY AD17 Site Number …59 Address Land at Cut Throat Lane, Bedford

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Location Extension to the urban area Site Promoter’s Proposal Hotel (130,000 sq.ft gross / 115,000 sq.ft net); Employment - B1Office (130,000 sq.ft gross/115,000 sq.ft net) SA Objectives Assessment Comments 1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions ++ Local services and facilities within walking distance; Good












~




~


11. Promote community involvement by all groups in society + Occupiers of site able to participate in existing community

350

in place shaping 12. Deliver low carbon buildings, whatever their use + 13. Support the borough’s economy and specifically encourage the high value knowledge based industries

x Future employment opportunities with proposed land use; Subject to scope and scale of employment generated; Concentration of commercial/tourism activity away from town centre



16. Strong local identity and sense of place + Adjoining existing community 17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime ~ Summary of assessment Positive effects due to local walkability and public transport levels of service, and distances may reduce need for private vehicle movements. Positive effects due to potential for local employment, but negative effects where business use proposed outside Bedford town centre. Negative effects due to use of greenfield land and flood risk. Summary of mitigation proposals Flood Risk Assessment needed to determine possible mitigation. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No secondary effects. Negative cumulative effects on Bedford town centre. POLICY AD18 Site Number …63 Address Land at Manton Lane, Bedford Location

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Extension to the urban area Site Promoter’s Proposal Employment (B2 - 37,000 sq.ft gross / 32,000 sq.ft net); Travelling Showperson plot SA Objectives Assessment Comments 1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions x Proximity to town centre services, facilities and cultural



~ Flood Risk Zone 1










+ Possible Travelling Showperson site






11. Promote community involvement by all groups in society + Occupiers of site able to participate in existing community

352

in place shaping 12. Deliver low carbon buildings, whatever their use + 13. Support the borough’s economy and specifically encourage the high value knowledge based industries

+ Future employment opportunities with proposed land use; Subject to the scope and scale of employment generated


x Proximity to town centre services, facilities and cultural opportunities, and public transport hubs; At a distance greater than likely walking distance; Good frequency of public transport.

16. Strong local identity and sense of place + Edge site, easily incorporated into existing settlement pattern 17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime ~ Summary of assessment Some positive effect due to potential for local employment. Positive effects due to public transport levels of service, and distances may reduce need for private vehicle movements. Positive effects where future communities have good access to existing communities, social infrastructure and a range of recreation. Positive effect where development could provide Travelling Showperson site. Negative effect due to use of greenfield land. Summary of mitigation proposals N/A. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No secondary or cumulative effects. POLICY AD19 Site Number … 165 Address Land at Bedford Road, Great Barford

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Location Extension to a key service centre Site Promoter’s Proposal Mixed use: Housing (not specified @ 30 dpha); Health centre; School bus parking and drop off facility SA Objectives Assessment Comments 1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions + Local services and facilities within walking distance; Infrequent


~ Flood Risk Zone 1










+




~




354


~



16. Strong local identity and sense of place + Site easily incorporated into existing settlement pattern 17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime ~ Summary of assessment Positive effects due to local walkability, but distances likely to continue private vehicle movements. Some positive effect where use of land complements existing settlement pattern and where future communities have access to health infrastructure. Negative effect due to use of greenfield land. Summary of mitigation proposals Significant improvement in public transport may mitigate number of private trips. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects Cumulative effect on settlement character and local transport network if all other proposals around settlement are implemented. No secondary effects. POLICY AD20 Site Number … 209 Address The Lakes, Roxton Road, Wyboston Location Other location in the rural policy area

355

Site Promoter’s Proposal Recreation/Leisure; Other (Holiday Fishing Village) SA Objectives Assessment Comments 1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions xxx Local services and facilities not within walking distance; Poor


~ Flood Risk Zone 1










~




~



xx Site isolated from existing settlement/communities


356





16. Strong local identity and sense of place ~ 17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime ~ Summary of assessment Positive effect where a range of recreation proposed and potential for local employment. Negative effect due to use of greenfield land. Negative effects due to increase in vehicle movements and impact on those without access to a private car. Summary of mitigation proposals Significant improvement in public transport may mitigate number of private trips. Any future development must have regard to habitat and biodiversity values. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No secondary or cumulative effects. POLICY AD21 Site Number … 257 Address Land north of Ravensden Road, Salph End, Renhold Location Other location in the rural policy area Site Promoter’s Proposal

357

Affordable Housing Exception (2) SA Objectives Assessment Comments 1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions x Limited local services and facilities within walking distance;


x Flood Risk Zone 2












~


~



x Occupiers of site not easily able to participate in existing community


~

358



16. Strong local identity and sense of place ~ 17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime ~ Summary of assessment Positive effect where scale of development should provide a housing mix. Negative effect due to flood risk, use of greenfield land and increase of activity beyond village edge. Negative effects due to increase in vehicle movements. Summary of mitigation proposals Significant improvement in public transport may mitigate number of private trips. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No secondary or cumulative effects. POLICY AD22 Site Number … 223 Address Land off Church Road, Willington Location Extension to a non-key service centre settlement with a defined settlement policy area Site Promoter’s Proposal Recreation/Leisure (holiday lodges) SA Objectives Assessment Comments

359

1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions xx Local services and facilities not within walking distance; Infrequent public transport


~ Flood Risk Zone 1




x Land not previously developed; Subject to effects on County Wildlife Site




xx Local services and facilities not within walking distance; Infrequent public transport


~


+


~

10. Meet the needs of a changing population xx Local services and facilities not within walking distance; Infrequent public transport



12. Deliver low carbon buildings, whatever their use ++ Development/building likely to include renewable technology 13. Support the borough’s economy and specifically encourage the high value knowledge based industries

+ Future employment opportunity with proposed land use; Subject to the scale and scope of employment generated


xxx Distance to town centre services, facilities and cultural opportunities, and public transport hubs; Local services and facilities not within walking distance; Infrequent public transport

360

16. Strong local identity and sense of place ~ 17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime ~ Summary of assessment Positive effects due to potential for local employment. Negative effects due to increase in vehicle movements and impact on those without access to a private car. Negative effect due to use of greenfield land. Summary of mitigation proposals Any future development must have particular regard to the biodiversity values and character of the County Wildlife designation area. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects Cumulative effect on settlement character and local transport network if all other proposals around settlement are implemented. No secondary effects. POLICY AD23 Site Number … 347 Address Bedford River Valley Park, Bedford Road, Cople Location Other location in the rural policy area Site Promoter’s Proposal Employment (13.55ha), hotel/conference centre/sports club/restaurant (3.91ha), continuing care retirement community (350 units), education (11.38 ha) – development will enable provision of watersports lake SA Objectives Assessment Comments 1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions x Local services and facilities not within walking distance; Good

frequency of public transport

361






x (part) Land not previously developed






++ Development likely to include affordable housing; Residential care facility proposed




+ Subject to scope of facilities provided



+ Community facilities proposed



14. Improve the skills of the labour force + Subject to the scope and scale of employment generated 15. Minimise growth in car usage, reduce the need to travel and promote the shift to more sustainable modes of transport


16. Strong local identity and sense of place ~

362

17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime ~ Summary of assessment Positive effect where scale of development should provide a housing mix. Positive effects where social infrastructure and a range of recreation facilities proposed. Positive effects due to potential for local employment. Negative effect due to use of greenfield land and flood risk and distance of development from existing communities. Negative effects due to increase in vehicle movements. Summary of mitigation proposals Significant improvement in public transport may mitigate number of private trips. Flood Risk Assessment needed to determine possible mitigation. Any future development must have particular regard to historic features. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No secondary or cumulative effects.

363

Appendix 12 Sustainability appraisal of designation policies in the Plan for Submission Policy AD1 Sustainable Design and Construction Policy AD24 Green Infrastructure Opportunity Zones Policy AD25 Forest of Marston Vale Policy AD26 Bedford River Valley Park Policy AD27 Bedford to Milton Keynes Waterway Park Policy AD28 Provision of Open Space and Built Facilities in Association with New Development Policy AD29 Kempston District Centre – new retail facilities Policy AD30 Kempston District Centre – changes of use Policy AD31 Local centres – new retail facilities Policy AD32 Key Service Centres Policy AD33 Other Growth Area Local Centres Policy AD34 Other Defined Retail Centres Policy AD35 Individual Shops and Undefined Retail Centres Policy AD36 All Shop Units Policy AD37 Road Schemes Policy AD38 Pedestrian Routes Policy AD39 Park and Ride Facilities Policy AD40 Commercial Vehicle Parking and Motorist Facilities Policy AD41 Cycling Policy AD42 Village Open Spaces and Views Policy AD43 Urban area boundary Policy AD44 Local Gaps Policy AD45 Urban Open Spaces and Gaps Policy AD46 Former Land Settlement Association Area Key to appraisal effects:




364

Policy AD1 Sustainable Design and Construction


Comments


Positive effect as policy will reduce demand for energy and increase use of renewable energy






~ ~ ~




o

Uncertain effect although lower energy use should have medium and long-term positive effect on living costs


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~



~ ~ ~




Positive effect as likely to increase general attractiveness of the area for relocating and

365


new businesses and lower energy costs




~ ~ ~



Summary of assessment Mostly positive and major positive effects due to increased use of renewable energy and construction of sustainable buildings. No negative effects. Summary of mitigation proposals None required. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No effects. Policy AD24 Green Infrastructure Opportunity Zones


Comments





Positive effect where there is no risk of development and heritage is a consideration in the development of these zones





6. Reduce levels of deprivation and exclusion, particularly the elderly and those from disadvantaged

o o o

Difficult to determine. Potential positive effect where space and areas of naturalness may improve quality of life and

366

backgrounds create opportunities for social interaction. Effect dependant on location relative to population.


~ ~ ~




~ ~ ~






~ ~ ~





o o o





x x x


Summary of assessment Mostly positive and major positive effects due to protection and enhancement of landscape, historic environment, biodiversity and accessible green space. Negative effect as increases potential for antisocial behaviour and fear of crime. Summary of mitigation proposals

367

Mitigate by careful design eg lighting, landscaping, passive surveillance. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No effects. Policy AD25 Forest of Marston Vale


Comments













~ ~ ~




~ ~ ~



Positive effect where community involved in project. Creation of meeting places for

368

participation and opportunities for social interaction.


~ ~ ~





o o o





x x x


Summary of assessment Mostly positive and major positive effects due to tree planting, protection and enhancement of landscape, historic environment, biodiversity and accessible green space, community involvement. Negative effect as increases potential for antisocial behaviour and fear of crime. Summary of mitigation proposals Mitigate by careful design eg lighting, landscaping, passive surveillance. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No effects. Policy AD26 Bedford River Valley Park


Comments





3. Protect and enhance the historic environment (and Positive effect as policy seeks

to preserve and enhance the

369

cultural heritage) of the Borough

historic environment




o o o





~ ~ ~




~ ~ ~






~ ~ ~





o o o


16. Strong local identity o o o Difficult to determine. Potential

370

and sense of place positive effect where preserves the character and quality of the countryside, and where communities identify with the area as an important contribution to place


x x x


Summary of assessment Mostly positive and major positive effects due to protection and enhancement of landscape, biodiversity, recreation and countryside access. Negative effect as increases potential for antisocial behaviour and fear of crime. Summary of mitigation proposals Mitigate by careful design eg lighting, landscaping, passive surveillance. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No effects. Policy AD27 Bedford to Milton Keynes Waterway Park


Comments






Positive effect as policy requires archaeological evaluation




o o o





371




~ ~ ~






~ ~ ~






16. Strong local identity and sense of place Positive effect where creates

local identity 17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime

x x x


Summary of assessment Mostly positive and major positive effects due to protection of natural features and habitats, opportunities for activity, participation and transport, and creating local identity. Negative effect as increases potential for antisocial behaviour and fear of crime. Summary of mitigation proposals Mitigate by careful design eg lighting, landscaping, passive surveillance. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No effects. Policy AD28 Provision of Open Space and Built Facilities in Association with New Development Sustainability objective Assessment of effects Comments

372

Short Medium Long 1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions



Positive effect where permeable surfaces are retained or provided and there is no risk of development








o o o



~ ~ ~




~ ~ ~





~ ~ ~

373


o o o








x x x


Summary of assessment Mostly positive and major positive effects due to reduction in need to travel, protection and creation of open areas, opportunities for recreation and creating local identity. Negative effect as increases potential for antisocial behaviour and fear of crime. Summary of mitigation proposals Mitigate by careful design eg lighting, landscaping, passive surveillance. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No effects. Policy AD29 Kempston District Centre – new retail facilities


Comments




~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~

374






~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~






~ ~ ~








Summary of assessment Mostly positive effects due to reduced need to travel and local provision of services. No negative effects. Summary of mitigation proposals None required. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No effects.

375

Policy AD30 Kempston District Centre – changes of use


Comments




~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~






~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


o o o



Positive effect where ensuring local provision of services and facilities promotes a viable centre and may create a

376

meeting space for interaction 12. Deliver low carbon buildings, whatever their use

~ ~ ~










Comments




~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~

5. Promote sustainable lifestyles, use resources efficiently, maximise

Positive effect where provision of services and facilities locally may reduce the need for some

377

recycling and re-use private motor vehicle trips 6. Reduce levels of deprivation and exclusion, particularly the elderly and those from disadvantaged backgrounds



~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~






~ ~ ~









378

Policy AD32 Key Service Centres


Comments




~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~






~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


o o o




12. Deliver low carbon ~ ~ ~

379

buildings, whatever their use 13. Support the borough’s economy and specifically encourage the high value knowledge based industries







Summary of assessment Mostly positive effects due to reduced need to travel and local provision of services. No negative effects. Summary of mitigation proposals None required. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No effects. Policy AD33 Other Growth Area Local Centres


Comments




~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~



6. Reduce levels of Positive effect where protection

380

deprivation and exclusion, particularly the elderly and those from disadvantaged backgrounds

of local services reduces the need to travel and creates a meeting space for interaction


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


o o o





~ ~ ~









381

Policy AD34 Other Defined Retail Centres


Comments




~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~






~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


o o o




12. Deliver low carbon ~ ~ ~

382

buildings, whatever their use 13. Support the borough’s economy and specifically encourage the high value knowledge based industries







Summary of assessment Mostly positive effects due to reduced need to travel and local provision of services. No negative effects. Summary of mitigation proposals None required. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No effects. Policy AD35 Individual Shops and Undefined Retail Centres


Comments




~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~



6. Reduce levels of Positive effect where protection

383


of local services reduces the need to travel and creates a meeting space for interaction


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


o o o



~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~






Summary of assessment Mostly positive effects due to reduced need to travel and local provision of services. No negative effects. Summary of mitigation proposals None required. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No effects. Policy AD36 All Shop Units

384


Comments




~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~






~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


o o o



~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~

13. Support the borough’s economy and specifically ~ ~ ~

385

encourage the high value knowledge based industries 14. Improve the skills of the labour force ~ ~ ~





x x x


Summary of assessment Mostly positive effects due to reduced need to travel and local provision of services. Negative effect where create vacant units. Summary of mitigation proposals Consider use of rate concessions to encourage temporary use of vacant units. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No effects. Policy AD37 Road Schemes


Comments



o o o


o o o







o o o Difficult to determine. Potential negative effect where scheme fails to provide for transport

386

those from disadvantaged backgrounds

poor by way of pedestrian access and adequately mitigate noise impacts on residential areas


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~



~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


The purpose of the schemes are to improve traffic flow which will benefit the local economy






Summary of assessment Negative effects due to increased traffic and the engineering associated with new road schemes. Positive effect on the economy. Summary of mitigation proposals Mitigate by careful design of schemes, improving public transport and maximising use of recycled materials. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No effects. Policy AD38 Pedestrian Routes


Comments

1. Reduce greenhouse gas Positive effect where new

387

emissions routes may encourage modal shift over time


~ ~ ~




~ ~ ~





~ ~ ~




~ ~ ~






~ ~ ~


o o o



15. Minimise growth in car usage, reduce the need to Positive effect where new

routes are created for active

388

travel and promote the shift to more sustainable modes of transport

transport modes


o o o



Summary of assessment Mostly positive and major positive effects due to increased opportunity for walking, leading to modal shift and increased activity. No negative effects. Summary of mitigation proposals None required. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects Positive cumulative effect due to long term improvements in health. Policy AD39 Park and Ride Facilities


Comments




x x x



~ ~ ~


x x x



o o o



~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~

389


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~




~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~





o o o



o o o



o o o


Summary of assessment Some negative effects due to creation of extensive area of non-permeable surface. Positive and potential positive effects due to reduced congestion and promotion of public transport. Summary of mitigation proposals Mitigate by design and choice of materials. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No effects. Policy AD40 Commercial Vehicle Parking and Motorist Facilities


Comments

1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions Positive effect as location on

strategic network will keep

390

traffic out of town, reducing congestion


x x x



~ ~ ~


x x x



~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~



~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


Positive effect as will support commercial activity


15. Minimise growth in car usage, reduce the need to travel and promote the shift

~ ~ ~

391

to more sustainable modes of transport 16. Strong local identity and sense of place ~ ~ ~


Summary of assessment Some negative effects due to creation of extensive area of non-permeable surface. Positive effect due to reduced congestion and support for commercial activity. Summary of mitigation proposals Mitigate by design and choice of materials. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No effects. Policy AD41 Cycling


Comments




~ ~ ~


o o o



~ ~ ~






~ ~ ~


Positive effect where cycling increases

9. Provide social ~ ~ ~

392

infrastructure for all ages and accessible services and facilities 10. Meet the needs of a changing population



~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


o o o






o o o



Summary of assessment Mostly positive and major positive effects due to increased opportunity for cycling, leading to modal shift and increased activity. No negative effects. Summary of mitigation proposals None required. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No effects. Policy AD42 Village Open Spaces and Views


Comments






393






Difficult to determine. Potential positive effect where space and areas of naturalness may improve quality of life and create opportunities for social interaction. Effect dependant on location relative to population


~ ~ ~




~ ~ ~



Difficult to determine. Potential positive effect where space and areas of naturalness may create meeting places for participation and opportunities for social interaction


~ ~ ~


o o o



15. Minimise growth in car usage, reduce the need to travel and promote the shift

o o o Difficult to determine. Potential positive effect where spaces are attractive and encourage

394

to more sustainable modes of transport

people to choose active transport




x x x


Summary of assessment Positive and major positive effects due to preservation of character of the built form and quality of the surrounding countryside. Negative effect as increases potential for antisocial behaviour and fear of crime. Summary of mitigation proposals Mitigate by careful design eg lighting, landscaping, passive surveillance. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No effects. Policy AD43 Urban area boundary


Comments











395


o o o



~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


o o o



Difficult to determine. Potential positive effect where containing urban expansion gives communities the greatest possible opportunity to connect with each other


~ ~ ~


o o






Positive effect where purpose of maintaining urban boundary is to preserve character of the urban area


Positive effects where limiting urban expansion promotes intensification of activities over time and may increase opportunity for passive

396

surveillance and sense of personal safety

Summary of assessment Positive and major positive effects increasing over time due to the containment of urban expansion promoting intensification of activities and preserving the character of the built form and quality of the surrounding countryside. No negative effects. Summary of mitigation proposals None required. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects The containment of development has positive synergistic effects on a number of sustainability indicators. Policy AD44 Local Gaps


Comments











~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~

9. Provide social infrastructure for all ages and accessible services

~ ~ ~

397

and facilities 10. Meet the needs of a changing population ~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~



o o o





o o


Summary of assessment Major positive and positive effects due to preservation of character of the built form and quality of the surrounding countryside. No negative effects. Summary of mitigation proposals None required. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No effects. Policy AD45 Urban Open Spaces and Gaps


Comments




398


Positive effect where preserves the character of the built form


Positive effect where preserves areas of naturalness within the built form






~ ~ ~




~ ~ ~





~ ~ ~


o o o



399


o o o




x x x


Summary of assessment Positive and major positive effects due to preservation of character of the built form and areas of naturalness. Negative effect as increases potential for antisocial behaviour and fear of crime. Summary of mitigation proposals Mitigate by careful design eg lighting, landscaping, passive surveillance. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No effects. Policy AD46 Former Land Settlement Association Area


Comments









~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~

7. Provide a range of Positive effect where unique

400

quality homes for all, especially affordable housing

housing stock within the borough is maintained


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~




~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~



~ ~ ~




Summary of assessment Positive and major positive effects due to protection of land from future development and maintenance of unique character and historic layout of area. No negative effects. Summary of mitigation proposals None required. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No effects.

401

Appendix 13 List of policies in the adopted Allocations and Designations Local Plan Allocation policies Policy AD3 Land at Hall End Road. Wootton Land at Hall End Road, Wootton will be developed for a mix of residential and education uses. Key principles of development include: i. Provision of a range of housing types and sizes on two hectares of land

located on the eastern part of the site adjoining the existing village. ii. At least one hectare of land in close proximity to Wootton Upper School to be

reserved for education use. This to be located in the western part of the site. iii. Access into the site to be opposite the current entrance to Wootton Upper

School or in its vicinity. iv. Buffer planting and landscaping to assimilate the development into the

landscape and provide separation for the properties on the eastern edge of the site.

v. Contributions to the delivery of the objectives of the Forest of Marston Vale. vi. Improvements to transportation networks, including: vii. Improvements to the footway on the eastern side of Hall End Road. viii. Pedestrian links through the residential part of the site to connect to adjacent

development, including a shared use pedestrian/cycle link with Studley Road. ix. A pedestrian/cycle (toucan) crossing of Hall End Road to serve the school. x. Pre-determination archaeological evaluation. xi. Submission of a heritage statement setting out the potential impact of the

proposed development on the significance of any heritage assets affected. Policy AD4 Land at Old Ford End Road, Queens Park, Bedford Land identified at Old Ford End Road, Queens Park, Bedford will be developed for residential use. Key principles of development include:- i. Dwellings to be integrated with existing development in terms of size, scale

and design. ii. Assessment of the nature and extent of ground contamination and

preparation of a remediation strategy for the site including methods of disposing of contaminated material, measures to prevent the pollution of surface and ground water and provisions for future monitoring, to be approved by the council.

Policy AD5 Wixams Northern Expansion Land to the north of Wixams will be developed for a mix of residential, employment, school and community uses conditional upon there being no delay to the delivery of key infrastructure on the main Wixams site. In the event that an application comes forward before o the delivery of the railway station, or o the completion of the remediation of village 2 on the core Wixams settlement

area, or o the release of village 2 to the market, or o the completion of 2201 dwellings. the application must be accompanied by a statement setting out a detailed programme for the delivery of all key infrastructure and community provision in the core Wixams site that generally accords with the principles in the original S106 in

402

particular for the timing of the railway station and community facilities in the town centre. The key principles of development include: i. Provision of a mix of dwelling types and sizes. ii. Provision of a site for approximately 80 extra care units iii. Provision of 5 hectares of B1 employment uses to integrate with the

committed employment area to the east of the allocation site to create a gateway employment site.

iv. A 2 hectare primary school site and funding including provision for early years.

v. Contribution to cost of education land and buildings for children of secondary school age.

vi. On site community provision including village hall or meeting room(s), children’s centre accommodation possibly in association with but additional to school provision.

vii. The development of the site to be guided by a Master Plan, design guide and design principles, to be agreed by the Council, with the objective of achieving a high quality, sustainable residentially-led mixed-use environment that incorporates a satisfactory relationship between the site and adjoining land uses. The Master Plan should be for the whole of the site and be submitted to support the planning application.

viii. Having regard to vii above, the provision of a layout for the development which takes full account of the noise and air quality environment relative to the railway line, rail aggregates depot and any other adjoining uses.

ix. Strategic/integrated approach to surface water management. x. Contributions to the delivery of the objectives of the Forest of Marston Vale xi. Pre-determination archaeological evaluation. xii. Noise and air quality assessments to inform item vii above. xiii. Improvements to transportation networks, including:

a. Pedestrian and cycle access to the A6 cycle route. b. Contribution towards the provision of traffic lights on A421 junction to

facilitate pedestrian and cycle movement. c. Contribution to Wixams station. d. Identification and safeguarding of a route for shuttle buses from the

parking area on the A6 to the Nirah site. xiv. Preparation of a Community and Leisure Facilities Strategy (CLFS) for the

Northern Expansion Area (NEA) that sets out the provision of services and facilities within the NEA (including the facilities outlined above) and including an explanation of the relationship to the adopted CLFS (dated 5 April 2005 and any subsequent amendments thereto) for the Wixams New Settlement.

Policy AD6 Land south of Ford End Road, Bedford Land south of Ford End Road, Bedford will be developed for a mix of residential and employment uses. Key principles of development include:- i. Provision of a mix of dwelling types and sizes. ii. 0.4 hectares of employment provision to be provided as managed workspace

and located to the north west of the Ford End Road link. iii. Assessment of the nature and extent of ground contamination and

preparation of a remediation strategy for the site including methods of disposing of contaminated material, measures to prevent the pollution of surface and ground water, and provisions for future monitoring, to be approved by the council.

iv. Submission of a comprehensive planning brief, to be agreed by the council in consultation with relevant property owners.

403

v. Provision of a layout which takes full account of the noise environment relative to both the railway line and the brewery.

vi. Submission of a site specific Flood Risk Assessment along with appropriate mitigation proposals.

vii. Retention and enhancement of the land adjacent to the railway to improve biodiversity value.

viii. Improvements to transportation networks, including: a. Provision of a cycle and pedestrian link between Sustrans Route 51 along

the riverside and Ford End Road and provision for the safe crossing of Ford End Road.

b. Provision of a bus drop off point adjacent to Ford End Road on the eastern side of the site (in accordance with the council’s Bedford Town Centre Area Action Plan) to include bus shelters and real time information (or equivalent).

c. Provision of the Ford End Road link (alternative vehicular access between Havelock Street and Ford End Road).

d. Contributions to improvements at the Prebend Street junction. ix. Pre-determination archaeological evaluation. Policy AD7 Land east of Eastcotts Road, Bedford Land identified east of Eastcotts Road, Bedford will be developed for a mix of residential and employment uses. Key principles of development include: i. A mix of dwelling types and sizes to be accessed from Eastcotts Road. ii. Re-provision of employment floorspace in the form of up to 4 Class B1 and/or

B2 units on part of the northern section of the site, with access from Arkwright Road (subject to confirmation that satisfactory access can be achieved).

iii. Delivery of the remainder of the northern part of the site to be maintained and managed for public open space, with associated landscaping, to secure a buffer between the employment and residential uses within and adjoining the site.

iv. Dwellings to be integrated with existing development in terms of size and scale.

v. Improvements to transportation networks, including: a. A travel assessment to determine the impact of the development on

roundabouts at the junction of Eastcotts Road and Cardington Road and the junction of Eastcotts Road, Harrowden Road and Cambridge Road.

b. Provision of a cycle and pedestrian link between Eastcotts Road and the northern boundary of the site and contributions to a link between the site and Cardington Road.

vi. Pre-determination archaeological evaluation Policy AD8 Dallas Road, Kempston Land identified at Dallas Road, Kempston will be developed for residential use. Key principles of development include: i. A mix of dwelling types and sizes. ii. Provision of a layout which take full account of the noise environment in

relation to adjacent noise sources. iii. Improvements to transportation networks, including:

a. Pedestrian links to the bus stops and footways on Bedford Road. b. Provision of real time information (or equivalent) at bus stops in the

vicinity of the site. c. Improvements to Dallas Road and construction of a new road corridor

between Dallas Road and College Street, including all necessary and associated engineering works and landscaping to achieve an adoptable standard.

404

iv. Revised access arrangements to the self service car wash. Policy AD9 St Bede’s School, Bedford Land and buildings identified at the former St Bede’s School, Bromham Road, Bedford will be developed for residential use. Key principles of development include: i. A mix of dwelling types and sizes which could include the provision of extra

care housing for older people. ii. Retention of open space and trees fronting Bromham Road iii. Retention of existing buildings of local importance. iv. On site layout and building design to have regard to existing buildings of local

importance and respect their setting. v. Dwellings to be integrated with existing development in terms of size and

scale. vi. Site to be accessed from Conduit Road or Conduit Road and The Avenue. vii. Archaeological investigations will be required as a condition of planning

permission. viii. Submission of a heritage statement setting out the potential impact of the

proposed development on the significance of any heritage assets affected. Policy AD10 Lansdowne Road, Warwick Avenue and Dynevor Road, Bedford Land at Lansdowne Road, Warwick Avenue and Dynevor Road, Bedford will be developed for residential and open space uses. Key principles of development include: i. Provision of a mix of dwelling types and sizes potentially including the

provision of extra care housing for older people. ii. Delivery and enhancement of public open space on the former tennis court

land parcel at Dynevor Road. iii. Pre-determination archaeological evaluation. iv. Submission of a heritage statement setting out the potential impact of the

proposed development on the significance of any heritage assets affected. Policy AD11 Land at Medbury Farm, Elstow Land at Medbury Farm will be developed for class B1 business park use. Key principles of development include: i. Business park with three clusters of development totalling no more than 31

hectares. ii. The development of the site to be guided by a Master Plan to be agreed by

the local planning authority. The Master Plan should be for the whole of the site and be submitted to support the planning application.

iii. Support for hotel associated with business use. iv. Design to respect local landscape priorities, with particular regard to retaining

and enhancing key views of Elstow Abbey. v. Delivery of Forest of Marston Vale planting on land south of the A421 (master

plan to be prepared and agreed with Forest of Marston Vale team). vi. Provision of a green corridor incorporating a pedestrian and cycle route south

of the A421 west/east from the A6 to Bumpy Lane and the A600. vii. Submission of a site specific Flood Risk Assessment along with mitigation

proposals. viii. A strategic/integrated approach to surface water management ix. Pre-determination archaeological evaluation. x. Improvement to transportation networks and specific highway concerns to be

addressed. a. Pedestrian and cycle links required from south of A421 and A6 into

Bedford (north/south).

405

b. Detailed information on connection to Wixams Northern and Central Gateway roundabouts on the A6.

c. Details of measures that will be implemented to prevent development related traffic from using village roads in Elstow to access the site.

d. Contribution towards the provision of traffic lights on A421 junction to facilitate pedestrian and cycle movement

e. Assessment of capacity at Cow Bridge junction. Policy AD12 Land at Bell Farm, Kempston Land at Bell Farm will be developed for a mix of classes B1 (a)(b) & (c), and B8 uses. Key principles of development include: i. Approx 18 hectares employment site. ii. Contribution to the delivery of the objectives of the Forest of Marston Vale –

particularly enhancing Bedford’s Green Gateway. iii. Deliver a section of the Bedford to Milton Keynes Waterway Park

incorporating canal, cycle and pedestrian paths (possibly Sustrans Route 51) through the site.

iv. A strategic/integrated approach to surface water management. v. Enhance/strengthen important gap between Bell Farm and Wootton. vi. Design to reflect site topography. vii. Provision of a high quality landmark/ gateway building at A421 junction viii. Pre-determination archaeological evaluation. ix. Improvements to transportation networks, including

a. Pedestrian and cycle access to facilities west of Kempston and Wootton. b. Direct left in/left out access to Bedford Western Bypass. c. Junction design to facilitate dualling of Bedford Western Bypass in the

future. x. The development of the site to be guided by a Master Plan to be agreed by


Policy AD13 Marston Vale Innovation Park Phase 2, Wootton Land adjacent to the Marston Vale Innovation Park will be developed for a mix of classes B1 (a) (b) & (c) and B2 uses. Key principles of development include: i. 10 hectares employment site. ii. Delivery of a section of the Bedford to Milton Keynes Waterway Park in

association with Phase 1, incorporating canal, cycle and pedestrian paths (possibly Sustrans Route 51).

iii. A strategic/integrated approach to surface water management. iv. Contribution to Forest of Marston Vale. v. Pre-determination archaeological evaluation. vi. Retention of existing landscaping where appropriate. vii. The development of the site to be guided by a Master Plan to be agreed by


Policy AD14 Land at Cardington Cross, Bedford Land at Cardington Cross will be developed for a mix of classes B1, B2 and B8 uses. Key principles of development include: i. 7 hectares employment site. ii. Submission of a site specific flood risk assessment. iii. Access via the old Cambridge Road only. iv. Support for hotel associated with business use. v. Archaeological investigations will be required as a condition of planning

permission.

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vi. Improvements to transportation networks and specific highway concerns to be addressed a. Improve pedestrian links including access to bus stops on A603. b. Assess impact on A5134/Wallis Way/site access roundabout. c. Assess impact on A5134/A603 roundabout. d. Assess impact on A603 & A600 grade separated junctions with A421.

vii. The development of the site to be guided by a Master Plan to be agreed by the local planning authority. The Master Plan should be for the whole of the site and be submitted to support the planning application.

viii. Retention of existing landscaping where appropriate. Policy AD15 Manton Lane Reservoir Site, Bedford Land at Manton Lane will be developed for a mix of classes B2 and B8 uses. Key principles of development include: i. 1.6 hectares employment site. ii. Design to link into green access route around north/northwest of the town. iii. Improvements to transportation networks and highway concerns to be

addressed. a. Assess impact on Manton Lane/Brickhill Drive signal controlled junction. b. Assess impact on A6/Clapham Road/A5141 Shakespeare Rd/Manton

Lane roundabout. c. Investigate possibility of cycleway provision on Manton Lane.

Policy AD16 Land west of Manton Lane, Bedford Land west of Manton Lane will be developed for classes B1(a) (b) & (c) and B2 uses. Key principles of development include: i. Development area restricted by ridgeline – estimate about 6 hectares of the

site can accommodate development. ii. Landscape enhancement required along ridgeline to screen development.

Height of development close to ridgeline restricted to single storey (4.5m maximum).

iii. Compensate for loss of hedgerow required to create access. iv. Pre-determination archaeological evaluation. v. Improvements to transportation networks and highway concerns to be

addressed: a. Create new footway/verge on west side of Manton Lane to afford safe

pedestrian access to site. b. Provide section of green access route (for pedestrian and cyclists) around

north west of town. c. Assess impact on Manton Lane/Brickhill Drive signal controlled junction. d. Assess impact on A6/Clapham Road/A5141 Shakespeare Rd/Manton

Lane Roundabout. e. Investigate possibility of cycleway provision on Manton Lane

vi. The development of the site to be guided by a Master Plan to be agreed by the local planning authority. The Master Plan should be for the whole of the site and be submitted to support the planning application.

Policy AD17 Land west of the B530, Kempston Land west of the B530 will be developed for a mix of classes B1, B2, B8 employment use. Key development principles include: i. 3.4 hectares employment site. ii. Submission of a site specific flood risk assessment. iii. High standard of building design and landscaping to reflect importance of this

gateway location. iv. Access from the old A421.

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v. Pedestrian links to the Interchange Retail Park. vi. Contribution to the delivery of the objectives of the Forest of Marston Vale. vii. Pre-determination archaeological evaluation. viii. The development of the site to be guided by a Master Plan to be agreed by


Policy AD18 Land north of the A6-A428 Link Road, Bedford Land north of the A6-A428 Link Road will be developed to provide a hotel. Key principles of development include: i. Single hotel building in a parkland setting to replace the hotel site approved in

the saved H8 development brief. ii. Landscape appraisal will guide the location and design of the building. iii. Hotel to come forward in association with the adjacent employment

development. If brought forward ahead of the employment development, an assessment will be required to determine impact on the delivery of sequentially preferable town centre hotel commitments.

iv. Financial contribution towards the delivery of the western bypass phase 2. v. Financial contribution towards the park and ride facility. vi. Financial contribution towards establishment of the proposed country park. vii. Planning application to be accompanied by a transport assessment and travel

plan for the site. viii. Retention of a wildlife corridor beside the river, to be kept free from

development. ix. Pre-determination archaeological evaluation. Policy AD19 Land at Manton Lane, Bedford Land at Manton Lane shall be developed for Travelling Showpeople. Key principles of development include: i. Development to avoid overhead powerline constraint ii. Buildings restricted to 1 storey in height (4.5m) to reduce impact iii. Landscape enhancement required along ridgeline (on and off site). iv. Improvements to pedestrian access and cycle network. v. Public transport improvements. vi. Pre-determination archaeological evaluation. Policy AD20 Land at Bedford Road, Great Barford Land identified at Bedford Road, Great Barford will be developed for a primary care facility and residential use. Key principles of the development include: i. Residential development of approximately 1.4 ha. ii. Land to provide a site for a primary care facility of approximately 0.4 hectares,

on the frontage to Bedford Rd together with a financial contribution towards the primary care facility.

iii. Improvements to transportation networks, including: a. New footway on Bedford Rd. b. Provision for a potential pedestrian link to Silver Street. c. Exploring the opportunity for school bus stop and drop off parking and

incorporate provision if appropriate. d. New junction with right turn lane. e. Improvements to pedestrian and cycle networks including crossing of

Bedford Rd. iv. Preparation of a transport assessment and travel plan for the site. v. Flood risk assessment to be submitted at planning application stage to

address surface water drainage. vi. Pre-determination archaeological evaluation

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Policy AD21 Land at Chawston Lakes, Roxton Road, Wyboston Land identified at Chawston Lakes, Wyboston will be developed for a holiday fishing village. Key principles of the development include: i. Provision of single storey waterside chalets of a design and number sensitive

to the rural character of the site. ii. A single café/fishing tackle shop of a size commensurate with the scale of

development proposed. iii. Retention of trees on the lake edge together with provision of additional

landscaping and replacement hedgerow on the Roxton Road frontage where the existing hedgerow is affected by the formation of the access.

iv. Chalets, pedestrian accesses and fishing piers to have level access, to facilitate use by the disabled.

v. Access to be provided from Roxton Road to meet visibility standards and speed reduction measures on Roxton Road as appropriate.

vi. Pre-determination archaeological evaluation. vii. A Heritage Statement comprising an assessment of the effect of the

proposals on the setting and significance of designated and undesignated heritage assets, in particular scheduled monuments 11555 (Chawston Manor moated site with associated fish pond) & 11531 (Moated enclosure and associated building platforms).

viii. Ecological survey management plan with measures to protect and promote biodiversity of the site to be prepared.

ix. Submission of a ground contamination survey to be required as a condition of any planning consent.

x. Details of foul water drainage to be clarified. Policy AD22 Land north of Ravensden Road, Salph End, Renhold Land identified north of Ravensden Road, Renhold will be developed for affordable housing. Key principles of development include: i. Provision of no more than two dwellings. ii. Dwellings to relate to existing adjacent development in terms of size and

scale. iii. Existing road access from Abbey Close to be utilised for the new dwellings if

highway standards can be met or other suitable alternative agreed. iv. Legal agreement to control occupation and management. Policy AD23 Bedford River Valley Park Enabling Development In order to deliver the watersports lake and other leisure opportunities which are an integral part of the Bedford River Valley Park, land identified to the north of the A603 will be developed for the following mix of uses: • Employment - including B1 uses for the provision of a business park incorporating

opportunities for research and development • Leisure - including a hotel & conference centre and entertainment space for

businesses including private sports club and restaurant facilities • Continuing care retirement community - including the provision for on site care

and other facilities along with ancillary office accommodation. • Education - provision of additional research and teaching and outdoor space to

meet the needs of expanding and improving educational institutions. Viability will be addressed in detail when a planning application is submitted. The required viability assessment will set out the proven cost of delivery of the watersports lake along with any additional qualifying expenditure as may be agreed by the local planning authority required for the delivery of the Bedford River Valley Park against the scale, nature and value of proposed enabling development.

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Key principles of development are to include: i. Provision of a comprehensive Master Plan for the enabling development. ii. Provision of a detailed phasing plan for the development that provides

delivery of the watersports lake on part of the first phase. iii. Provision of two access points on the A603 to serve both the enabling

development and the wider park area. iv. Preparation of a transport assessment and travel plan for the site including

the provision of mitigation measures as appropriate. v. Improvements to transportation networks, including a safe pedestrian and

cycle crossing across the A603 linking with existing cycle and pedestrian routes.

vi. An assessment of the site-specific ecological impacts of the proposals to be undertaken prior to the submission of the planning application.

vii. Identify opportunities to enhance biodiversity and green infrastructure. viii. A heritage statement to be provided to include a detailed assessment of the

potential impact of the proposed development on the significance of any heritage assets affected, including setting and landscape context.

ix. Compliance with and contributions towards the delivery of the comprehensive heritage access, management and interpretation strategy for the Bedford River Valley Park archaeological landscape.

x. Archaeological investigations may be required as a condition of any forthcoming planning permission for enabling development.

xi. Built development will only be permitted within the area shown on the Policies Map.

Designation policies Policy AD1 Sustainable development policy When considering development proposals the Council will take a positive approach that reflects the presumption in favour of sustainable development contained in the National Planning Policy Framework. It will always work proactively with applicants jointly to find solutions which mean that proposals can be approved wherever possible, and to secure development that improves the economic, social and environmental conditions in the area. Planning applications that accord with the policies in the Development Plan will be approved unless material considerations indicate otherwise. Where there are no policies relevant to the application or relevant policies are out of date at the time of making the decision then the Council will grant permission unless material considerations indicate otherwise – taking into account whether: 1) any adverse impacts of granting permission would significantly and

demonstrably outweigh the benefits, when assessed against the policies in the National Planning Policy Framework taken as a whole; or

2) specific policies in that Framework indicate that development should be restricted.

Policy AD2 Sustainable design and construction Proposals for sustainable buildings will be encouraged in the borough. All new residential developments in the borough of 10 dwellings and over or 0.3 hectares and over are required to meet full Code for Sustainable Homes level 4 or equivalent as a minimum and to achieve zero carbon emissions as regulated by Building Regulation (or alternative definition of zero carbon as subsequently adopted by the Government). If it is not feasible to achieve zero carbon emissions on-site, developers will be required to contribute to the council’s Carbon Offset Fund.

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All new non-domestic developments in the borough over 1000 square metres gross internal floorspace are required to achieve BREEAM “Very Good” standard or equivalent as a minimum. These requirements will apply unless it can be demonstrated that they would make the development unviable. Policy AD24 Green Infrastructure Opportunity Zones The green infrastructure network is divided into six opportunity zones as shown on the Policies Map. The opportunity zones reflect those areas in the borough where there is the greatest potential to maintain and enhance the multifunctional nature of green infrastructure across the five themes of landscape, historic environment, biodiversity, accessible green space and access routes. Where appropriate, development will deliver or contribute to the protection, enhancement and/or creation of green infrastructure in accordance with the priorities set out for each opportunity zone. Policy AD25 Forest of Marston Vale In appropriate circumstances (and within the area designated on the Policies Map) the council will expect proposals to address the aims of the project as set out in the Forest Plan 2000 and seek contributions towards its implementation, including the 30% woodland cover target. Policy AD26 Bedford River Valley Park The council will seek the creation of the Bedford River Valley Park as an area where opportunities exist for landscape enhancement, nature conservation, recreation, access improvements, increased public access and the preservation and enhancement of the historic environment in accordance with the Framework for the River Valley Park. When development opportunities arise within the area shown on the Policies Map, development will be expected to contribute towards the creation and delivery of the Bedford River Valley Park. Policy AD27 Bedford to Milton Keynes Waterway Park The council will support the creation of the Bedford to Milton Keynes Waterway Park as a strategic green infrastructure link benefitting the borough as a whole, but particularly important to the delivery of sustainable growth in the Northern Marston Vale. The indicative route of the Waterway Park is shown on the Policies Map. Where appropriate, development will be expected to contribute towards the creation and delivery of the Waterway Park. Pre-determination archaeological evaluation is required. Policy AD28 Provision of open space and built facilities in association with new development Where new housing development is of a type likely to create a demand, the council will require provision of open space and built facilities in accordance with the standards in the following table. Where possible, provision should be made on-site. Where this is not possible, practical or preferred, a financial contribution in lieu of on-site provision will be required. Such contributions will be secured through planning obligations and will fund improvements to existing facilities or will be pooled to provide new facilities. Provision should include a contribution towards the cost of future management and maintenance. Policy AD29 Kempston district centre – new retail facilities

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Proposals for new retail facilities within the district centre will be supported if: i. New development would enhance the appearance of the district centre. ii. New development will be of a scale and form which is appropriate to the

convenience and service function of the district centre. iii. The applicant can demonstrate that the scale and form of the development

proposed and its function could not be more appropriately accommodated within Bedford town centre.

iv. The applicant can demonstrate that the proposals would not have an adverse impact on Bedford town centre.

v. Satisfactory servicing and car parking facilities can be provided to avoid on street congestion and to protect highway safety.

vi. The proposal will be accessible by a choice of means of transport other than the private car.

Policy AD30 Kempston District Centre – changes of use In the designated district centre, the council will only grant planning permission for the change of use from retail sales to other uses where the applicant can demonstrate to the satisfaction of the council that the vitality and viability of the centre would not be adversely affected and it will offer a range of everyday community, shopping and employment opportunities. Policy AD31 Local centres – new retail facilities Proposals for new shops within existing local centres or in existing or proposed new residential areas where there is a local need will be supported if the proposal is of a scale appropriate to the role and function of the local centre and is intended to principally serve the needs of the local community. Policy AD32 Local centres and other defined retail centres In Key Service Centres, Other Growth Area Local Centres (designated on the Policies Map) and Other Defined Retail Centres, the council will only grant planning permission for the change of use of essential local shops to other uses when: i. Alternative essential local shops are available within the centre. In Key

Service Centres and Other Growth Area Local Centres at least three different essential local shop types should remain available. In Other Defined Retail Centres at least one essential local shop type should remain available.

ii. The applicant can demonstrate to the satisfaction of the council that the current (or last) use is no longer economically viable (including in appropriate circumstances financial information); this can best be demonstrated by providing evidence that the property has been actively marketed.


Essential local shops types are: Type 1 - food shops, such as: small supermarkets, butchers, greengrocers. Type 2 - newsagents and confectionery shops. Type 3 - pharmacies and dispensing chemists. Type 4 - cafes, restaurants, hot food takeaways and public houses. Policy AD33 Individual shops and undefined retail centres The council will only grant planning permission for the change of use of individual essential local shops (not within a defined centre) to other uses when: i. There are other essential local shops within 10 minutes walking time (half a

mile) providing a similar service. ii. The applicant can demonstrate to the satisfaction of the council that the

current (or last) use is no longer economically viable (including in appropriate

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circumstances financial information); this can best be demonstrated by providing evidence that the property has been actively marketed.

Essential local shops are: food shops, such as: small supermarkets, butchers, greengrocers; newsagents and confectionery shops, pharmacies and dispensing chemists; cafes, restaurants, hot food takeaways and public houses. Policy AD34 All shop units The council will only grant planning permission for the change of use of a shop unit within Classes A1 to A5 of the Town and Country Planning (Use Classes) Order 1987 (as subsequently amended) to a use outside of these Classes when evidence provided by the applicant shows that there is no under-provision of local shopping facilities in that area, taking account of the potential role and function of the shop unit or centre in the retail hierarchy. Policy AD35 Road schemes The council supports improvements to the local highway network including the St Johns Area Relief Scheme, the Ford End Road link and the Dallas Road link. Policy AD36 Pedestrian routes The council will require the protection, enhancement and promotion of pedestrian routes and facilities. The council will seek the provision of new pedestrian routes and facilities which are safe, convenient, attractive, and which link local facilities, particularly in association with major development and transportation proposals. The provision of routes which form part of the Green Wheel or other outdoor access routes, include safer routes to schools and include new river crossings at Honey Hill Road / Hillgrounds, adjacent to Britannia Ironworks, at Batts Ford and in the vicinity of Fenlake Meadows / Priory Park will be sought. Policy AD37 Park and ride facilities The council will seek the provision of high quality car parking facilities at park and ride sites for long stay users as indicated on the Policies Map. Where possible the provision of such facilities will be in association with public transport priority measures and busways. In appropriate cases the provision of sites and developer funding towards the cost of park and ride facilities and services will be sought. Policy AD38 Commercial vehicle parking and motorist facilities The council will determine any planning applications for commercial vehicle parking facilities and motorists’ facilities against the following criteria: vii. The impact of the proposal on residential amenities. viii. The safety and convenience of the proposed access arrangements. ix. The effect of the proposals on the environment. x. The quality of the proposed design and landscaping. xi. The degree of need. xii. Site availability and location in close proximity to the strategic network. Policy AD39 Cycling The council will require the protection, enhancement and promotion of cycle routes and facilities including those shown on the Policies Map, and seek the provision of new routes and facilities for cyclists which are safe, convenient and attractive, particularly in association with major development and transportation proposals. River and rail crossings will include provision for cyclists where appropriate. Policy AD40 Village open spaces and views Open spaces which have particular importance in maintaining the function, character and identity of villages are identified on the Policies Map as village open spaces.

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Open spaces have been identified as village open spaces / views where they meet one or more of the following criteria: A. They are publicly accessible and valuable to the local community for sport,

recreation or as amenity space. B. They give identity to a settlement or village by helping to retain its form and

reflect past history (examples include village greens). C. They provide a gap or break in the frontage which contributes to the character

of a settlement for example by providing a view into a village which forms part of the village setting, or a view into open countryside establishing the relationship between the form of the village and the countryside beyond.

D. The gap provides visual relief in an otherwise built up area punctuating the street scene.

E. The open space assists the transition between village and countryside providing a soft edge to the village which is pleasing visually.

Development will not be permitted on land designated as a village open space or view unless it can be demonstrated that the reasons for designation are not compromised or that other material considerations outweigh the need to retain the village open space or view undeveloped. Policy AD41 Urban area boundary The council seeks to protect the character of Bedford and Kempston, and to protect the countryside from inappropriate development by defining on the Policies Map the extent of the urban area. The urban area boundary encloses the area where policies relevant to built-up areas apply and beyond which policies relevant to the countryside apply. Policy AD42 Local gaps Areas which have particular importance as a local gap are identified on the Policies Map. Development will not be permitted in or adjoining a local gap which, because of the nature of the proposal: i. diminishes the gap physically or visually; or ii. changes its character adversely; or iii. compromises the integrity of the gap, either individually or cumulatively with

other existing or proposed development; or iv. harms the character, setting or identity of any settlements separated by the

gap. Proposers of development in or adjoining a local gap will be expected to demonstrate to the satisfaction of the local planning authority that their proposal does not conflict with the objectives of this policy. Policy AD43 Urban open spaces and gaps Open areas which have particular importance in maintaining the function, character and identity of the urban area are identified on the Policies Map as urban open spaces. These include: i. equipped play areas, playing fields and other sports facilities ii. parks, gardens or other amenity space iii. allotments/community garden space and cemeteries/churchyards iv. Local Nature Reserves, County Wildlife Sites and Sites of Special Scientific

Interest (SSSI) v. landscaping that contributes to streetscape or character of an area vi. buffers between different land uses vii. green breaks in an otherwise built up area viii. visual breaks to safeguard local distinctiveness, (particular areas of

importance around Elstow and Biddenham have been identified as gaps) ix. parts of the overall network of green spaces and links.

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Development will not be permitted on land designated as urban open space and gaps unless it can be demonstrated that the reasons for designation are not compromised or that other material considerations outweigh the need to retain the urban open space and gaps undeveloped. The council will seek in association with new development, the provision of new and/or the enhancement of existing open space. Policy AD44 Former Land Settlement Association Area Within the former Land Settlement Association Area defined on the Policies Map, development will only be permitted where applications: i. Maintain the distinctive spatial pattern, layout and scale of plots. ii. Respect the style, scale, appearance and orientation of the original dwellings

and separation between them. iii. Protect residential amenity from inappropriate disturbance. iv. Do not result in unacceptable levels of traffic generation.

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Appendix 14 Sustainability appraisal of sites allocated in the adopted Plan The complete document, the Sustainability Appraisal of Sites, is published as a separate background document to the Plan. This appraises all the sites that were put forward by landowners and developers for consideration by the council and is based on the proposal as submitted to the council. That appraisal has been updated as additional information and sites have been submitted. In this appendix the appraisal has been updated to reflect the provisions of the allocation policy as included in the Allocations and Designations Plan rather than the developers’ proposals. Policy AD3 Land at Hall End Road. Wootton Policy AD4 Land at Old Ford End Road, Queens Park, Bedford Policy AD5 Wixams Northern Expansion Policy AD6 Land south of Ford End Road, Bedford Policy AD7 Land east of Eastcotts Road, Bedford Policy AD8 Dallas Road, Kempston Policy AD9 St Bede’s School, Bedford Policy AD10 Lansdowne Road, Warwick Avenue and Dynevor Road, Bedford Policy AD11 Land at Medbury Farm, Elstow Policy AD12 Land at Bell Farm, Kempston Policy AD13 Marston Vale Innovation Park phase 2, Wootton Policy AD14 Land at Cardington Cross, Bedford Policy AD15 Manton Lane Reservoir Site, Bedford Policy AD16 Land west of Manton Lane, Bedford Policy AD17 Land west of the B530, Kempston Policy AD18 Land north of the A6-A428 Link Road, Bedford Policy AD19 Land at Manton Lane, Bedford Policy AD20 Land at Bedford Road, Great Barford Policy AD21 Land at Chawston Lakes, Roxton Road, Wyboston Policy AD22 Land north of Ravensden Road, Salph End, Renhold Policy AD23 Bedford River Valley Park enabling development Key to appraisal effects:







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POLICY AD3 Site Number … 44 Address Land at Hall End Road, Wootton Location Extension to a growth area key service centre Plan Proposal A range of housing types and sizes on 2 ha of land, 1 ha of land for education use. SA Objectives Assessment Comments 1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions ++ Local services and facilities within walking distance; Good


~ Flood Risk Zone 1












417


~





~


x Distance to town centre services, facilities and cultural opportunities, and public transport hubs; Local services and facilities within walking distance; Good frequency of public transport

16. Strong local identity and sense of place x Scale of development significant relative to existing settlement 17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime ~ Summary of assessment Positive effect where scale of development should provide a housing mix. Negative effects due to use of greenfield land. Negative effects due to increase in vehicle movements. Summary of mitigation proposals Significant improvement in public transport may mitigate number of private trips. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects Cumulative effect on settlement character and local transport network if all other proposals around settlement are implemented. No secondary effect. POLICY AD4

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Site Number … 376 Address Land at Old Ford End Road, Queens Park, Bedford Location Within the existing urban area or a growth area key service centre Plan Proposal Housing, integrated with existing development in terms of size, scale and design. SA Objectives Assessment Comments 1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions +++ Proximity to Bedford town centre services, facilities and cultural



~ Flood Risk Zone 1









7. Provide a range of quality homes for all, especially +

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x Loss of employment land with proposed land use change


+++ Proximity to town centre services, facilities and cultural opportunities, and public transport hubs; Local services and facilities within walking distance; Good frequency of public transport

16. Strong local identity and sense of place + Site easily incorporated into existing settlement pattern 17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime + Use of derelict/underutilised land in the urban area Summary of assessment Positive effects due to use of brownfield land, where development coherent with the existing built environment and where use of derelict/underutilised land may strengthen communities and reduce fear of crime. Positive effects due to local walkability and public transport levels of service, and distances may reduce need for private vehicle movements. Positive effects where future communities have good access to existing communities, social infrastructure and a range of recreation. Negative effect where employment land lost. Summary of mitigation proposals N/A Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects

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No secondary or cumulative effects POLICY AD5 Site Number … 191 Address Wixams Northern Expansion Location Other location in the growth area Plan Proposal A mix of residential, employment, school and community uses, to include mix of dwelling types and sizes, 80 extra care units, 5 ha of B1 employment uses, 2 ha school site. SA Objectives Assessment Comments 1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions ? Subject to completion of proposed new town centre services


~ Flood Risk Zone 1







421






?


+ Development to include community facilities



+ Site accessible to committed development, which will take a number of years to complete.





16. Strong local identity and sense of place ~ 17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime ~ Summary of assessment Positive effect where scale of development should provide a housing mix and potential for local employment. Negative effect due to use of greenfield land. Unknown effect on private vehicle movements and those without access to a private car. Summary of mitigation proposals N/A Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No secondary effects. Positive cumulative effects on new town proposal.

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POLICY AD6 Site Number …60 Address Land south of Ford End Road, Bedford Location Within the existing urban area or a growth area key service centre Plan Proposal A mix of residential and employment uses, to include a mix of dwelling types and sizes, 0.4 ha employment provision. SA Objectives Assessment Comments 1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions +++ Proximity to town centre services and facilities, and public



x Flood Risk Zone 2











423









~



16. Strong local identity and sense of place + Site easily incorporated into existing settlement 17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime ++ Active use of derelict/underutilised land in the urban area Summary of assessment Positive effects due to use of brownfield land and where use of derelict/underutilised land may strengthen communities and reduce fear of crime. Positive effects where future communities have good access to existing communities, social infrastructure and a range of recreation. Positive effects due to local walkability and public transport levels of service; and distances may reduce need for private vehicle movements. Summary of mitigation proposals Flood Risk Assessment needed to determine possible mitigation. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No secondary or cumulative effects.

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POLICY AD7 Site Number …68 Address Land east of Eastcotts Road, Bedford Location Within the existing urban area or a growth area key service centre Plan Proposal Mix of residential and employment uses, to include a mix of dwelling types and sizes, up to 4 B1/B2 units and open space. SA Objectives Assessment Comments 1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions +++ Proximity to town centre services, facilities and cultural



~ Flood Risk Zone 1








+++ Proximity to town centre services, facilities and cultural opportunities, and public transport hubs; Limited local services

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and facilities within walking distance; Good frequency of public transport; Site easily incorporated into existing settlement pattern













+++ Proximity to town centre services, facilities and cultural opportunities, and public transport hubs; Limited services and facilities within walking distance; Good frequency of public transport

16. Strong local identity and sense of place + Site easily incorporated into existing settlement pattern 17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime ++ Active use of derelict/underutilised land in urban area Summary of assessment Positive effect where scale of development should provide a housing mix. Positive effects due to use of brownfield land. Positive effects due to local walkability and public transport levels of service, and distances may reduce need for private vehicle movements. Positive effects where future communities have good access to existing communities, social infrastructure and a range of recreation. Negative effect where employment activity lost. Summary of mitigation proposals

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N/A. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No secondary or cumulative effects. POLICY AD8 Site Number … 83 Address Dallas Road, Kempston Location Within the existing urban area or a growth area key service centre Plan Proposal Housing, with a mix of dwelling types and sizes. SA Objectives Assessment Comments 1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions +++ Proximity to town centre services, facilities and cultural



x Flood Risk Zone 2



4. Create, conserve, protect and enhance the Borough’s + Previously developed land

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16. Strong local identity and sense of place + Site easily incorporated into existing settlement pattern 17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime ++ Active use of derelict/underutilised land in the urban area Summary of assessment

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Positive effect where scale of development should provide a housing mix. Positive effects due to local walkability and public transport levels of service, and distances may reduce need for private vehicle movements. Positive effects due to use of brownfield land and where use of derelict/underutilised land may strengthen communities and reduce fear of crime. Positive effects where future communities have good access to existing communities, social infrastructure and a range of recreation. Negative effect due to flood risk. Negative effect where employment activity lost. Summary of mitigation proposals Flood Risk Assessment needed to determine possible mitigation. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No secondary or cumulative effects. POLICY AD9 Site Number …A007 Address St Bede’s School, Bedford Location Within the existing urban area or a growth area key service centre Plan Proposal Housing, with a mix of dwelling types and sizes which could include extra care housing for older people. SA Objectives Assessment Comments 1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions +++ Proximity town centre services, facilities and cultural



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+ Proposal include measures to protect or enhance known heritage assets






+++ Proximity to Bedford town centre services, facilities and cultural opportunities, and public transport hubs; Good frequency of public transport







10. Meet the needs of a changing population +++ Proximity to town centre services, facilities and cultural opportunities, and public transport hubs; Good frequency of public transport




~



16. Strong local identity and sense of place + Site easily incorporated into existing settlement pattern. 17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime ~

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Summary of assessment Positive effect where scale of development should provide a housing mix. Positive effects where future communities have good access to existing communities, social infrastructure and a range of recreation. Positive effects where distances may reduce need for private vehicle movements. Positive effect due to use of brownfield land and where development coherent with the existing built environment. Summary of mitigation proposals N/A Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No secondary of cumulative effects. POLICY AD10 Site Number …72, 73, 74 Address Lansdowne Road, Warwick Avenue and Dynevor Road, Bedford Location Within the existing urban area or a growth area key service centre Plan Proposal Housing and open space, with a mix of dwelling types and sizes, potentially including extra care housing for older people. SA Objectives Assessment Comments 1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions +++ Proximity to town centre services, facilities and cultural

opportunities, and public transport hubs 2. Reduce the risk of flooding including adapting to the impacts of climate change

~ Flood Risk Zone 1

3. Protect and enhance the built historic features and cultural ? Proposal does not include measures to protect or enhance

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heritage of the Borough known heritage assets further information/assessment required 4. Create, conserve, protect and enhance the Borough’s natural features, distinctive local environments, habitats and species





+++ Proximity to town centre services, facilities and cultural opportunities, and public transport hubs;







10. Meet the needs of a changing population +++ Proximity to town centre services, facilities and cultural opportunities, and public transport hubs




~


+++ Proximity to town centre services, facilities and cultural opportunities, and public transport hubs

16. Strong local identity and sense of place + Site easily incorporated into existing settlement pattern 17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime ++ Use of derelict/underutilised land in the urban area Summary of assessment Positive effects due to local walkability and public transport levels of service, and distances may reduce need for private vehicle movements. Positive effects due to use of a brownfield land and where use of derelict/underutilised land may strengthen communities and reduce fear of crime. Positive effect where development should provide a housing mix. Positive effects where future communities have good access to existing communities, social infrastructure and a range of recreation.

432

Summary of mitigation proposals Any future development must have particular regard to character of Conservation Area. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No secondary or cumulative effects. POLICY AD11 Site Number … 150, 151, 152 Address Land at Medbury Farm, Elstow Location Extension to the urban area Plan Proposal Employment, with class B1 business park totalling 31 ha, plus hotel. SA Objectives Assessment Comments 1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions x Limited local services and facilities within walking distance;







433






~




~





+ Subject to the scope and scale of employment generated



16. Strong local identity and sense of place ~ 17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime ~ Summary of assessment Some positive effects due to potential for local employment but negative effect where business use proposed outside Bedford town centre. Negative effects due to use of greenfield land and flood risk. Negative effects due to increase in vehicle movements. Summary of mitigation proposals Significant improvement in the coverage of public transport may mitigate number of private trips. Flood Risk Assessment needed to determine possible mitigation. Any future development must have regard to heritage assets. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects

434

Negative cumulative effects on village/urban edge and Bedford town centre. No secondary effects. POLICY AD12 Site Number … 176 Address Land at Bell Farm, Kempston Location Extension to the urban area Plan Proposal Employment; approx 18 ha mix of B1 and B8 uses, open space. SA Objectives Assessment Comments 1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions ? Subject to completion of nearby committed development 2. Reduce the risk of flooding including adapting to the impacts of climate change










435


~


~


~

10. Meet the needs of a changing population ?

Subject to completion of nearby committed development




+ Subject to the scale and scope of employment generated



16. Strong local identity and sense of place ? Subject to assessment and implementation of recommendations through design of development

17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime ~ Summary of assessment Some positive effects due to potential for local employment but negative effect where business use proposed outside Bedford town centre. Negative effect due to flood risk, use of greenfield land and distance of development from existing communities. Levels of impact on private vehicle movements and those without access to a private car unknown. Opportunity exists for improvement to pedestrian and cycle access to facilities. Summary of mitigation proposals Flood Risk Assessment needed to determine possible mitigation. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No secondary or cumulative effects.

436

POLICY AD13 Site Number … 195 Address Marston Vale Innovation Park Phase 2, Wootton Location Extension to a growth area key service centre Plan Proposal Employment, 10 ha mix of B1 and B2, open space. SA Objectives Assessment Comments 1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions ? Subject to completion of nearby committed development 2. Reduce the risk of flooding including adapting to the impacts of climate change

~ Flood Risk Zone 1










~


437


~

10. Meet the needs of a changing population ? Subject of completion of nearby committed development 11. Promote community involvement by all groups in society in place shaping



+ Subject to the scale and scope of employment generated


? Distance to town centre services, facilities and cultural opportunities, and public transport hubs; subject to completion of nearby committed development

16. Strong local identity and sense of place ~ Site will easily incorporate with nearby committed development 17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime ~ Summary of assessment Positive effects due to potential for local employment. Negative effect due to use of greenfield land. Unknown impact on private vehicle movements. Summary of mitigation proposals Significant improvement in public transport may mitigate any increase in number of private trips. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects Cumulative effect on settlement character and local transport network if all other proposals around settlement are implemented. No secondary effects. POLICY AD14 Site Number …24

438

Address Land at Cardington Cross, Bedford Location Within the existing urban area or a growth area key service centre Plan Proposal Employment, 7 ha mix of B1, B2 and B8, hotel. SA Objectives Assessment Comments 1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions x Limited local services and facilities within walking distance;


x Flood Risk Zone 2










~


~


~

10. Meet the needs of a changing population x Limited local services and facilities within walking distance;

439

Good frequency of public transport 11. Promote community involvement by all groups in society in place shaping

+ Occupiers able to participate in existing community


+ Future employment opportunities with proposed land use.



16. Strong local identity and sense of place + Site easily incorporated into existing settlement pattern 17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime ~ Summary of assessment Some positive effects due to potential for local employment. Negative effects due to use of greenfield land and flood risk. Negative effects due to increase in vehicle movements. Summary of mitigation proposals Significant improvement in the coverage of public transport may mitigate number of private trips. Flood Risk Assessment needed to determine possible mitigation. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects Negative cumulative effects on Bedford town centre. No secondary effects. POLICY AD15 Site Number …78 Address Manton Lane Reservoir Site, Bedford Location

440

Within existing urban area or a growth area key service centre Plan Proposal Employment, 1.6 ha mix of B2 and B8. SA Objectives Assessment Comments 1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions ++ Proximity to town centre services, facilities and cultural



~ Flood Risk Zone 1










~





10. Meet the needs of a changing population ++ Proximity to Bedford town centre services, facilities and cultural

441








16. Strong local identity and sense of place + Site easily incorporated into existing settlement pattern 17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime ++ Active use of derelict/underutilised land in the urban area Summary of assessment Positive effects due to use of brownfield land and where use of derelict/underutilised land may strengthen communities and reduce fear of crime. Positive effects due to local walkability and public transport levels of service, and distances may reduce need for private vehicle movements. Positive effects where future communities have good access to existing communities, social infrastructure and a range of recreation. Positive effects due to potential for local employment. Summary of mitigation proposals N/A Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No secondary or cumulative effects POLICY AD16

442

Site Number …67 Address Land west of Manton Lane, Bedford Location Extension to the urban area Plan Proposal Employment, mix of B1 and B2. SA Objectives Assessment Comments 1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions ++ Local services and facilities not within walking distance; Good


~ Flood Risk Zone 1










~



9. Provide social infrastructure for all ages and accessible ++ Proximity to Bedford town centre services, facilities and cultural

443

services and facilities opportunities, and public transport hubs; 10. Meet the needs of a changing population ++ Proximity to Bedford town centre services, facilities and cultural








16. Strong local identity and sense of place ~ 17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime ~ Summary of assessment Positive effects due to potential for local employment. Positive effects due to public transport levels of service, and distances may reduce need for private vehicle movements. Positive effects where future communities have good access to existing communities, social infrastructure and a range of recreation. Negative effect due to use of greenfield land. Summary of mitigation proposals Significant improvement in coverage of public transport may mitigate number of private vehicle trips. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No secondary or cumulative effects. POLICY AD17 Site Number … A015

444

Address Land west of the B530, Kempston Location Within the existing urban area or a growth area key service centre Plan Proposal Employment, 3.4 ha mix of B1, B2 and B8. SA Objectives Assessment Comments 1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions x Limited local services and facilities within walking distance;












~





445





+ Future employment opportunities with proposed land use



16. Strong local identity and sense of place + Site easily incorporated within existing settlement pattern. 17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime ~ Summary of assessment Positive effects where distances may reduce need for private vehicle movements. Positive effects where future communities have good access to existing communities, social infrastructure and a range of recreation. Positive effects due to the potential for local employment. Negative effects due to use of greenfield land and flood risk. Summary of mitigation proposals Flood Risk Assessment needed to determine possible mitigation. Significant improvement in coverage of public transport may mitigate number of private trips. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No secondary or cumulative effects. POLICY AD18 Site Number …59 Address

446

Land north of the A6-A428 Link Road, Bedford Location Extension to the urban area Plan Proposal Hotel SA Objectives Assessment Comments 1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions ++ Local services and facilities within walking distance; Good












~




~


447




x Future employment opportunities with proposed land use; Subject to scope and scale of employment generated; Concentration of commercial/tourism activity away from town centre



16. Strong local identity and sense of place + Adjoining existing community 17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime ~ Summary of assessment Positive effects due to local walkability and public transport levels of service, and distances may reduce need for private vehicle movements. Positive effects due to potential for local employment, but negative effects where business use proposed outside Bedford town centre. Negative effects due to use of greenfield land and flood risk. Summary of mitigation proposals Flood Risk Assessment needed to determine possible mitigation. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No secondary effects. Negative cumulative effects on Bedford town centre. POLICY AD19 Site Number …63 Address Land at Manton Lane, Bedford

448

Location Extension to the urban area Plan Proposal Travelling Showpeople site. SA Objectives Assessment Comments 1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions x Proximity to town centre services, facilities and cultural



~ Flood Risk Zone 1










+ Possible Travelling Showpeople site






449




~


x Proximity to town centre services, facilities and cultural opportunities, and public transport hubs; At a distance greater than likely walking distance; Good frequency of public transport.

16. Strong local identity and sense of place + Edge site, easily incorporated into existing settlement pattern 17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime ~ Summary of assessment Positive effects due to public transport levels of service, and distances may reduce need for private vehicle movements. Positive effects where future communities have good access to existing communities, social infrastructure and a range of recreation. Positive effect where development provides Travelling Showpeople site. Negative effect due to use of greenfield land. Summary of mitigation proposals N/A. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No secondary or cumulative effects. POLICY AD20 Site Number … 165 Address Land at Bedford Road, Great Barford

450

Location Extension to a key service centre Plan Proposal Primary care facility (0.4 ha) and residential (1.4 ha). SA Objectives Assessment Comments 1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions + Local services and facilities within walking distance; Infrequent


~ Flood Risk Zone 1










+




~




451


~



16. Strong local identity and sense of place + Site easily incorporated into existing settlement pattern 17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime ~ Summary of assessment Positive effects due to local walkability, but distances likely to continue private vehicle movements. Some positive effect where use of land complements existing settlement pattern and where future communities have access to health infrastructure. Negative effect due to use of greenfield land. Summary of mitigation proposals Significant improvement in public transport may mitigate number of private trips. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects Cumulative effect on settlement character and local transport network if all other proposals around settlement are implemented. No secondary effects. POLICY AD21 Site Number … 209 Address Land at Chawston Lakes, Roxton Road, Wyboston Location Other location in the rural policy area

452

Plan Proposal Holiday Fishing Village, café/tackle shop. SA Objectives Assessment Comments 1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions xxx Local services and facilities not within walking distance; Poor


~ Flood Risk Zone 1










~




~



xx Site isolated from existing settlement/communities


453





16. Strong local identity and sense of place ~ 17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime ~ Summary of assessment Positive effect where a range of recreation proposed and potential for local employment. Negative effect due to use of greenfield land. Negative effects due to increase in vehicle movements and impact on those without access to a private car. Summary of mitigation proposals Significant improvement in public transport may mitigate number of private trips. Any future development must have regard to habitat and biodiversity values. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No secondary or cumulative effects. POLICY AD22 Site Number … 257 Address Land north of Ravensden Road, Salph End, Renhold Location Other location in the rural policy area Plan Proposal

454

Affordable Housing of 2 dwellings. SA Objectives Assessment Comments 1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions x Limited local services and facilities within walking distance;


x Flood Risk Zone 2












~


~



x Occupiers of site not easily able to participate in existing community


~

455



16. Strong local identity and sense of place ~ 17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime ~ Summary of assessment Positive effect where scale of development should provide a housing mix. Negative effect due to flood risk, use of greenfield land and increase of activity beyond village edge. Negative effects due to increase in vehicle movements. Summary of mitigation proposals Significant improvement in public transport may mitigate number of private trips. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No secondary or cumulative effects. POLICY AD23 Site Number … 347 Address Bedford River Valley Park enabling development Location Other location in the rural policy area Plan Proposal Employment (including B1 business park), leisure (including hotel and conference centre, private sports club and restaurant, continuing care retirement community, education – development will enable provision of watersports lake.

456

SA Objectives Assessment Comments 1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions x Local services and facilities not within walking distance; Good












++ Development likely to include affordable housing; Residential care facility proposed




+ Subject to scope of facilities provided



+ Community facilities proposed




xxx Distance to town centre services, facilities and cultural opportunities, and public transport hubs; Local services and

457

facilities not within walking distance; Good frequency of public transport

16. Strong local identity and sense of place ~ 17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime ~ Summary of assessment Positive effect where scale of development should provide a housing mix. Positive effects where social infrastructure and a range of recreation facilities proposed. Positive effects due to potential for local employment. Negative effect due to use of greenfield land and flood risk and distance of development from existing communities. Negative effects due to increase in vehicle movements. Summary of mitigation proposals Significant improvement in public transport may mitigate number of private trips. Flood Risk Assessment needed to determine possible mitigation. Any future development must have particular regard to historic features. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No secondary or cumulative effects.

458

Appendix 15 Sustainability appraisal of designation policies in the adopted Plan Policy AD1 Sustainable development policy Policy AD2 Sustainable design and construction Policy AD24 Green Infrastructure Opportunity Zones Policy AD25 Forest of Marston Vale Policy AD26 Bedford River Valley Park Policy AD27 Bedford to Milton Keynes Waterway Park Policy AD28 Provision of open space and built facilities in association with new development Policy AD29 Kempston district centre – new retail facilities Policy AD30 Kempston district centre – changes of use Policy AD31 Local centres – new retail facilities Policy AD32 Local centres and other defined retail centres Policy AD33 Individual shops and undefined retail centres Policy AD34 All shop units Policy AD35 Road schemes Policy AD36 Pedestrian routes Policy AD37 Park and ride facilities Policy AD38 Commercial vehicle parking and motorist facilities Policy AD39 Cycling Policy AD40 Village open spaces and views Policy AD41 Urban area boundary Policy AD42 Local gaps Policy AD43 Urban open spaces and gaps Policy AD44 Former Land Settlement Association area Key to appraisal effects:




459

Policy AD1 Sustainable development policy


Comments


The policy is likely to lead to an increase in development, however this is required to be sustainable and accord with specific policies in the NPPF (which include reducing greenhouse gas emissions).


The policy requires development to be sustainable and accord with specific policies in the NPPF (which include reducing the risk of flooding).


The policy requires development to be sustainable and accord with specific policies in the NPPF (which include protection of the historic environment).


The policy requires development to be sustainable and accord with specific policies in the NPPF (which include protection of the natural environment).


o o o

The policy requires development to be sustainable however no specific reference is made to resource efficiency.


o o o

The policy requires development to be sustainable however no specific reference is made to deprivation.


The policy is likely to lead to an increase in development, however this is required to be sustainable and accord with specific policies in the NPPF (which include the provision of affordable housing).


The policy requires development to be sustainable and accord with specific policies in the NPPF (which include promoting healthy communities).


The policy requires development to be sustainable and accord with specific

460

and facilities policies in the NPPF (which include providing social facilities).


The policy requires development to be sustainable however no specific reference is made to changing needs.


The policy requires development to be sustainable however no specific reference is made to community involvement.


The policy requires development to be sustainable and accord with specific policies in the NPPF (which include low carbon development).


The policy requires development to be sustainable and accord with specific policies in the NPPF (which include economic growth).



The policy is likely to lead to an increase in development, however this is required to be sustainable and accord with specific policies in the NPPF (which include promoting sustainable transport).


The policy is likely to lead to an increase in development, however this is required to be sustainable and accord with specific policies in the NPPF (which include taking account of the role and character of different areas).


Summary of assessment Mostly positive effects due to specific references to policies in the NPPF. No negative effects.Summary of mitigation proposals None required. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No effects. Policy AD2 Sustainable design and construction


Comments

461


Positive effect as policy will reduce demand for energy and increase use of renewable energy






~ ~ ~




o

Uncertain effect although lower energy use should have medium and long-term positive effect on living costs


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~



~ ~ ~







462


~ ~ ~



Summary of assessment Mostly positive and major positive effects due to increased use of renewable energy and construction of sustainable buildings. No negative effects. Summary of mitigation proposals None required. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No effects. Policy AD24 Green Infrastructure Opportunity Zones


Comments





Positive effect where there is no risk of development and heritage is a consideration in the development of these zones








463




~ ~ ~






~ ~ ~





o o o





x x x


Summary of assessment Mostly positive and major positive effects due to protection and enhancement of landscape, historic environment, biodiversity and accessible green space. Negative effect as increases potential for antisocial behaviour and fear of crime. Summary of mitigation proposals Mitigate by careful design eg lighting, landscaping, passive surveillance. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No effects.

464

Policy AD25 Forest of Marston Vale


Comments













~ ~ ~




~ ~ ~



Positive effect where community involved in project. Creation of meeting places for participation and opportunities for social interaction.


~ ~ ~

465





o o o





x x x


Summary of assessment Mostly positive and major positive effects due to tree planting, protection and enhancement of landscape, historic environment, biodiversity and accessible green space, community involvement. Negative effect as increases potential for antisocial behaviour and fear of crime. Summary of mitigation proposals Mitigate by careful design eg lighting, landscaping, passive surveillance. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No effects. Policy AD26 Bedford River Valley Park


Comments






Positive effect as policy seeks to preserve and enhance the historic environment

4. Create, conserve, protect and enhance the Borough’s natural features,


466

distinctive local environments, habitats and species 5. Promote sustainable lifestyles, use resources efficiently, maximise recycling and re-use

o o o





~ ~ ~




~ ~ ~






~ ~ ~





o o o



o o o

Difficult to determine. Potential positive effect where preserves the character and quality of the countryside, and where communities identify with the area as an important

467

contribution to place 17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime

x x x


Summary of assessment Mostly positive and major positive effects due to protection and enhancement of landscape, biodiversity, recreation and countryside access. Negative effect as increases potential for antisocial behaviour and fear of crime. Summary of mitigation proposals Mitigate by careful design eg lighting, landscaping, passive surveillance. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No effects. Policy AD27 Bedford to Milton Keynes Waterway Park


Comments






Positive effect as policy requires archaeological evaluation




o o o





~ ~ ~

8. Achieve healthy lifestyles and provide Positive effect where space

and areas of naturalness

468

facilities to enable this provides for physical activity and mental wellbeing


~ ~ ~






~ ~ ~






16. Strong local identity and sense of place Positive effect where creates

local identity 17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime

x x x


Summary of assessment Mostly positive and major positive effects due to protection of natural features and habitats, opportunities for activity, participation and transport, and creating local identity. Negative effect as increases potential for antisocial behaviour and fear of crime. Summary of mitigation proposals Mitigate by careful design eg lighting, landscaping, passive surveillance. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No effects. Policy AD28 Provision of open space and built facilities in association with new development


Comments



469


Positive effect where permeable surfaces are retained or provided and there is no risk of development








o o o



~ ~ ~




~ ~ ~





~ ~ ~


o o o

Difficult to determine. Potential positive effect if spaces are attractive and where new and existing businesses choose attractive places within which to

470

operate 14. Improve the skills of the labour force ~ ~ ~






x x x


Summary of assessment Mostly positive and major positive effects due to reduction in need to travel, protection and creation of open areas, opportunities for recreation and creating local identity. Negative effect as increases potential for antisocial behaviour and fear of crime. Summary of mitigation proposals Mitigate by careful design eg lighting, landscaping, passive surveillance. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No effects. Policy AD29 Kempston district centre – new retail facilities


Comments




~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~



6. Reduce levels of Positive effect where ensuring

471


local provision of services reduces the need to travel and creates a meeting space for interaction


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~






~ ~ ~








Summary of assessment Mostly positive effects due to reduced need to travel and local provision of services. No negative effects. Summary of mitigation proposals None required. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No effects. Policy AD30 Kempston district centre – changes of use Sustainability objective Assessment of effects Comments

472

Short Medium Long 1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions



~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~






~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


o o o





~ ~ ~

13. Support the borough’s Positive effect where protection

473

economy and specifically encourage the high value knowledge based industries

of local services and facilities promotes a viable centre supporting the economy








Comments




~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~



6. Reduce levels of deprivation and exclusion, particularly the elderly and those from disadvantaged

Positive effect where ensuring local provision of services reduces the need to travel and creates a meeting space for

474

backgrounds interaction 7. Provide a range of quality homes for all, especially affordable housing

~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~






~ ~ ~








Summary of assessment Mostly positive effects due to reduced need to travel and local provision of services. No negative effects. Summary of mitigation proposals None required. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No effects. Policy AD32 Local centres and other defined retail centres


Comments

1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions Positive effect where protection

of local services and facilities

475

may reduce the need for some private motor vehicle trips


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~






~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


o o o





~ ~ ~

13. Support the borough’s economy and specifically encourage the high value knowledge based


476

industries 14. Improve the skills of the labour force ~ ~ ~





Summary of assessment Mostly positive effects due to reduced need to travel and local provision of services. No negative effects. Summary of mitigation proposals None required. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No effects. Policy AD33 Individual shops and undefined retail centres


Comments




~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~





7. Provide a range of quality homes for all, ~ ~ ~

477


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


o o o



~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~






Summary of assessment Mostly positive effects due to reduced need to travel and local provision of services. No negative effects. Summary of mitigation proposals None required. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No effects. Policy AD34 All shop units


Comments



478


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~






~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


o o o



~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


15. Minimise growth in car Positive effect where protection

479

usage, reduce the need to travel and promote the shift to more sustainable modes of transport

of local shop units may reduce the need for some private motor vehicle trips



x x x


Summary of assessment Mostly positive effects due to reduced need to travel and local provision of services. Negative effect where create vacant units. Summary of mitigation proposals Consider use of rate concessions to encourage temporary use of vacant units. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No effects. Policy AD35 Road schemes


Comments



o o o


o o o







o o o

Difficult to determine. Potential negative effect where scheme fails to provide for transport poor by way of pedestrian access and adequately mitigate noise impacts on residential areas

7. Provide a range of quality homes for all, ~ ~ ~

480


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~



~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


The purpose of the schemes are to improve traffic flow which will benefit the local economy






Summary of assessment Negative effects due to increased traffic and the engineering associated with new road schemes. Positive effect on the economy. Summary of mitigation proposals Mitigate by careful design of schemes, improving public transport and maximising use of recycled materials. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No effects. Policy AD36 Pedestrian routes


Comments


Positive effect where new routes may encourage modal shift over time


~ ~ ~

481




~ ~ ~





~ ~ ~




~ ~ ~






~ ~ ~


o o o




Positive effect where new routes are created for active transport modes

16. Strong local identity and sense of place o o o

Difficult to determine. Potential positive effect where communities identify with new

482

routes as an important contribution to place


Summary of assessment Mostly positive and major positive effects due to increased opportunity for walking, leading to modal shift and increased activity. No negative effects. Summary of mitigation proposals None required. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects Positive cumulative effect due to long term improvements in health. Policy AD37 Park and ride facilities


Comments




x x x



~ ~ ~


x x x



o o o



~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~

483

and facilities 10. Meet the needs of a changing population o o o



~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~





o o o



o o o



o o o


Summary of assessment Some negative effects due to creation of extensive area of non-permeable surface. Positive and potential positive effects due to reduced congestion and promotion of public transport. Summary of mitigation proposals Mitigate by design and choice of materials. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No effects. Policy AD38 Commercial vehicle parking and motorist facilities


Comments




x x x


484


~ ~ ~


x x x



~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~



~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


Positive effect as will support commercial activity



~ ~ ~



485

Summary of assessment Some negative effects due to creation of extensive area of non-permeable surface. Positive effect due to reduced congestion and support for commercial activity. Summary of mitigation proposals Mitigate by design and choice of materials. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No effects. Policy AD39 Cycling


Comments




~ ~ ~


o o o



~ ~ ~






~ ~ ~


Positive effect where cycling increases


~ ~ ~



486


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


o o o






o o o



Summary of assessment Mostly positive and major positive effects due to increased opportunity for cycling, leading to modal shift and increased activity. No negative effects. Summary of mitigation proposals None required. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No effects. Policy AD40 Village open spaces and views


Comments








487




Difficult to determine. Potential positive effect where space and areas of naturalness may improve quality of life and create opportunities for social interaction. Effect dependant on location relative to population


~ ~ ~




~ ~ ~



Difficult to determine. Potential positive effect where space and areas of naturalness may create meeting places for participation and opportunities for social interaction


~ ~ ~


o o o




o o o




488


x x x


Summary of assessment Positive and major positive effects due to preservation of character of the built form and quality of the surrounding countryside. Negative effect as increases potential for antisocial behaviour and fear of crime. Summary of mitigation proposals Mitigate by careful design eg lighting, landscaping, passive surveillance. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No effects. Policy AD41 Urban area boundary


Comments












o o o


489


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


o o o



Difficult to determine. Potential positive effect where containing urban expansion gives communities the greatest possible opportunity to connect with each other


~ ~ ~


o o






Positive effect where purpose of maintaining urban boundary is to preserve character of the urban area


Positive effects where limiting urban expansion promotes intensification of activities over time and may increase opportunity for passive surveillance and sense of personal safety

Summary of assessment Positive and major positive effects increasing over time due to the containment of urban expansion promoting intensification of activities and preserving the character of the built form and quality of the surrounding countryside. No negative effects.

490

Summary of mitigation proposals None required. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects The containment of development has positive synergistic effects on a number of sustainability indicators. Policy AD42 Local gaps


Comments











~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~



~ ~ ~

491


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~



o o o





o o


Summary of assessment Major positive and positive effects due to preservation of character of the built form and quality of the surrounding countryside. No negative effects. Summary of mitigation proposals None required. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No effects. Policy AD43 Urban open spaces and gaps


Comments





Positive effect where preserves the character of the built form

4. Create, conserve, protect and enhance the Positive effect where preserves

areas of naturalness within the

492

Borough’s natural features, distinctive local environments, habitats and species

built form






~ ~ ~




~ ~ ~





~ ~ ~


o o o




o o o


493



x x x


Summary of assessment Positive and major positive effects due to preservation of character of the built form and areas of naturalness. Negative effect as increases potential for antisocial behaviour and fear of crime. Summary of mitigation proposals Mitigate by careful design eg lighting, landscaping, passive surveillance. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No effects. Policy AD44 Former Land Settlement Association area


Comments









~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


Positive effect where unique housing stock within the borough is maintained


~ ~ ~

494


~ ~ ~




~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~


~ ~ ~



~ ~ ~




Summary of assessment Positive and major positive effects due to protection of land from future development and maintenance of unique character and historic layout of area. No negative effects. Summary of mitigation proposals None required. Secondary, cumulative or synergistic effects No effects.

495

Appendix 16 Assessment of cumulative effects of adopted Plan policies on sustainability objectives Sustainability objectives 1. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions 2. Reduce the risk of flooding including adapting to the impacts of climate change 3. Protect and enhance the historic environment (and cultural heritage) of the

borough 4. Create, conserve, protect and enhance the borough’s natural features, distinctive

local environments, habitats and species 5. Promote sustainable lifestyles, use resources efficiently, maximise recycling and


from disadvantaged backgrounds 7. Provide a range of quality homes for all, especially affordable housing 8. Achieve healthy lifestyles and provide facilities to enable this 9. Provide social infrastructure for all ages and accessible services and facilities 10. Meet the needs of a changing population 11. Promote community involvement by all groups in society in place shaping 12. Deliver low carbon buildings, whatever their use 13. Support the borough’s economy and specifically encourage the high value

knowledge based industries 14. Improve the skills of the labour force 15. Minimise growth in car usage, reduce the need to travel and promote the shift to

more sustainable modes of transport 16. Strong local identity and sense of place 17. Minimise crime and the fear of crime. Plan for Submission policies Policy AD1 Sustainable development policy Policy AD2 Sustainable design and construction Policy AD3 Land at Hall End Road. Wootton Policy AD4 Land at Old Ford End Road, Queens Park, Bedford Policy AD5 Wixams Northern Expansion Policy AD6 Land south of Ford End Road, Bedford Policy AD7 Land east of Eastcotts Road, Bedford Policy AD8 Dallas Road, Kempston Policy AD9 St Bede’s School, Bedford Policy AD10 Lansdowne Road, Warwick Avenue and Dynevor Road, Bedford Policy AD11 Land at Medbury Farm, Elstow Policy AD12 Land at Bell Farm, Kempston Policy AD13 Marston Vale Innovation Park phase 2, Wootton Policy AD14 Land at Cardington Cross, Bedford Policy AD15 Manton Lane Reservoir Site, Bedford Policy AD16 Land west of Manton Lane, Bedford Policy AD17 Land west of the B530, Kempston Policy AD18 Land north of the A6-A428 Link Road, Bedford

496

Policy AD19 Land at Manton Lane, Bedford Policy AD20 Land at Bedford Road, Great Barford Policy AD21 Land at Chawston Lakes, Roxton Road, Wyboston Policy AD22 Land north of Ravensden Road, Salph End, Renhold Policy AD23 Bedford River Valley Park enabling development Policy AD24 Green Infrastructure Opportunity Zones Policy AD25 Forest of Marston Vale Policy AD26 Bedford River Valley Park Policy AD27 Bedford to Milton Keynes Waterway Park Policy AD28 Provision of open space and built facilities in association with new development Policy AD29 Kempston district centre – new retail facilities Policy AD30 Kempston district centre – changes of use Policy AD31 Local centres – new retail facilities Policy AD32 Local centres and other defined retail centres Policy AD33 Individual shops and undefined retail centres Policy AD34 All shop units Policy AD35 Road schemes Policy AD36 Pedestrian routes Policy AD37 Park and ride facilities Policy AD38 Commercial vehicle parking and motorist facilities Policy AD39 Cycling Policy AD40 Village open spaces and views Policy AD41 Urban area boundary Policy AD42 Local gaps Policy AD43 Urban open spaces and gaps Policy AD44 Former Land Settlement Association area Key to appraisal effects: Note that the appraisal of the site allocation policies used a slightly different set of symbols to convey the effect against SA objectives. The key below shows the equivalent meaning against the symbols used in the following assessment.


Equivalent symbol used in site allocation policies appraisal

Major positive effect +++ or ++ Positive effect +

O Neutral or uncertain effect ~ or ? (reassessed to split between neutral and uncertain effect)

X Negative effect X XX Major negative effect XX or XXX ~ Not relevant ~

(reassessed to split between no impact and neutral effect)

497

SA objectives policies 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17

AD1 O O O O ~ ~ AD2 O ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ AD3 O O X X O O ~ ~ X X O AD4 O O X ~ AD5 O O O X X O O O O O O AD6 X O ~ ~ AD7 O O X ~ AD8 X O X ~ AD9 O ~ ~ O

AD10 O O ~ ~ AD11 X XX O X X X ~ O ~ X O X ~ ~ AD12 O XX O X X O ~ O ~ O O O O ~ AD13 O O O X X O ~ ~ ~ O O O O ~ AD14 X X O X X X ~ ~ ~ X X ~ AD15 O O ~ AD16 O O X X ~ O ~ AD17 X XX O X X X ~ X O X ~ AD18 XX O X X ~ ~ X ~ AD19 X O O X X X X ~ ~ X ~ AD20 O O X X O ~ ~ XX ~ AD21 XX O O X X XX ~ O XX XX ~ XX ~ ~ AD22 X X O X X XX ~ ~ X X ~ ~ XX ~ ~ AD23 X XX O X X X X XX O ~ AD24 ~ O O ~ ~ O ~ ~ O X AD25 O ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ O X AD26 O O ~ ~ O ~ ~ O O X AD27 O O ~ ~ O ~ ~ X AD28 O O ~ ~ O ~ O ~ X AD29 ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

498

SA objectives policies 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17

AD30 ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ O ~ ~ ~ AD31 ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ AD32 ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ O ~ ~ ~ AD33 ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ O ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ AD34 ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ O ~ ~ ~ ~ X AD35 X O O X X O ~ ~ ~ O ~ ~ ~ X X ~ AD36 ~ O ~ ~ ~ ~ O ~ O ~ AD37 X ~ X O ~ ~ ~ ~ O ~ ~ ~ O O O AD38 X ~ X ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ AD39 ~ O ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ O ~ O ~ AD40 ~ O O ~ ~ ~ O ~ O ~ O X AD41 O O ~ ~ ~ O O ~ O ~ AD42 ~ O ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ O O AD43 ~ O O ~ ~ ~ O ~ O ~ O X AD44 ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Cumulative effect of policies

O

O

Documents

Bedford Development Framework