Biggleswade Garden Community

Engagement for a sustainable transport corridor in Biggleswade

Update: August 2022

The engagement process has now ended. Read the report outlining the findings (PDF).

About the project

East of Biggleswade Garden Village was included in Homes England’s Garden Communities Programme in 2019, with 1,500 new homes currently approved for development.

With our partners Homes England and Biggleswade Town Council, we're exploring options for a sustainable transport corridor to connect existing and new communities in eastern Biggleswade with key destinations in town such as the High Street, the train station and new transport interchange as well as providing access to the new facilities and open spaces developed as part of the east of Biggleswade.

We recognise the potential impact of this growth on the local transport networks. We are using the sustainable transport corridor as a pilot project to test new approaches to our streets and how we move around, giving more choices for travel beyond the use of cars. We would like to reduce car use to improve the quality of life, health and wellbeing of our communities.

What is a garden village?

Originally, garden villages were based on industry and employment, with developers looking to create well designed, healthy places and affordable homes. Today, the sample principles apply but in a modern-day context, seek to create vibrant, diverse and affordable communities with a range of housing and community facilities.

Garden community principles:

  • high quality and healthy place
  • a unique place 
  • sustainable and fit for the future
  • a green and natural place
  • a connected and well-integrated place
  • strong community roots

What is a sustainable transport corridor?

Sustainable transport refers to transport that does not rely on dwindling natural resources and is accessible and available for all. Examples include walking, cycling, scootering as well as buses and trains. Our sustainability plan outlines the importance of investing in active travel and public transport networks, improving countryside access and connectivity between towns, as well as walking networks. 

A sustainable transport corridor provides high quality and attractive walking, cycling and public transport networks, connecting places and encouraging people to leave the car at home.