New planning documents adopted that promote high quality design and inclusive development in Central Bedfordshire
Friday, 18 August 2023
Three important planning guidance documents have been approved to help ensure that new development in Central Bedfordshire is sustainable, inclusive and of high quality.
Following consultation with residents and stakeholders, three supplementary planning documents (SPDs) – the Design Guide, Parking Standards for New Developments, and Housing Policy Technical Guidance – were all approved at the latest meeting of the Council’s Executive Committee.
The updated Design Guide sets out key principles and standards of design in Central Bedfordshire and reflects changes to national planning policy and guidance, and other local strategies such as our Local Plan, Sustainability Plan and 2050 Vision.
The Parking Standards for New Developments considers changing car ownership, in setting out the number of parking spaces required for different types of vehicles in both residential and commercial developments, as well as giving more comprehensive guidance on the types of parking that should and shouldn’t be provided.
The Housing Policy Technical Guidance sets out how housing policies within the Local Plan should be implemented, including further details on housing mix, housing standards, housing for older people, affordable housing, rural exception sites and self and custom build housing.
Councillor Mary Walsh, our Executive Member for Planning and Development, said:
It’s great to see all three new guidance documents adopted by the Council. A lot of hard work has gone into developing them to ensure that new development is well designed, of high quality and meets the need of our local communities – now and in the future.
These SPDs further support the adopted Local Plan, our Sustainability Plan and Vision 2050 – and our aim to deliver a well-planned and sustainable approach to development in Central Bedfordshire, for the benefit of new and existing residents.