We're launching a new initiative to help protect valued green spaces from future development
Thursday, 2 October 2025
Last year, we started work on developing a new Local Plan that will shape the future of new homes, jobs and infrastructure, recreation and leisure, transport, local facilities, and green spaces.
Thousands of residents shared their views on what makes a community. People cited access to outstanding green spaces and the protection of existing spaces as the top priorities. As a result, the new Local Plan will try to create new green spaces and protect the ones we already value.
Recognising the importance of protecting green spaces, we've chosen to include new measures in the Local Plan to designate Local Green Spaces (LGS). This is not a statutory requirement but a proactive step to ensure vital green spaces can be protected for future generations.
We're now working with town and parish councils to identify potential LGS sites. To be considered, each submission must be supported by clear evidence demonstrating why the land is important to the community and how it meets the strict criteria set out by the government in national planning policy. Initially town and parish councils will collect this information, and residents are encouraged to work with their local council to put forward suggestions.
Councillor Adam Zerny, Leader of Central Bedfordshire Council, said:
Protecting green spaces is one of our biggest priorities and we are determined this will play a big part in this Local Plan.
It's not just about trying to protect against inappropriate development; it's also about providing the space for people to exercise and relax, to allow wildlife to flourish and to guard against environmental damage and even flood risk.
There will be a formal consultation on the proposed Local Green Spaces next year but in the meantime, we are contacting all parish and town councils, to ask them whether they have any areas they would like to nominate.