Outline plans for an employment site to the east of Bedford have been approved by the borough council.
Last night (25 March) Bedford Borough Council’s Planning Committee approved the plans for the demolition of existing workshop premises on land south of Goldington Road, and the development of land for employment purposes with up to 21,500 sqm of internal floor space.
This will be a mix of ‘light industrial’, ‘general industrial’ and ‘storage and distribution’ uses, along with parking provision and landscaping, alterations to existing access, creation of landscaped areas and associated works.
Jonathan Warner, planning officer, said: “According to the submitted documents, the development of [the site] could provide up to 600 new employment opportunities.
“Studies have been undertaken in preparation of the Draft Local Plan 2040 and they confirm the need for further employment land provision within the borough.
“The proposals will contribute to meeting this identified demand.
“The scheme also includes positive landscape and biodiversity enhancements of the river valley to the south, creating a high-quality environment and delivering increased opportunities for public access,” he said.
The committee heard the development will enable future links to create an extended riverside walk along the Ouse from Bedford town centre to the east, which is “consistent” with the council’s aspirations set out in the Local Plan, Mr Warner added.
The planning consent was secured by a land promotion company called Newcrest Bedford Ltd, owned by Milton Keynes-based Duncan Mason and Bedford businessman Russell Beard.
Speaking to the Bedford Independent, Russell said: “We are obviously delighted to have secured the consent albeit a long and often frustrating journey.
“The land is perfectly located for any logistics operator with easy access to the M1, A1, A6 and A14 – it is very tachograph friendly.
“‘It is clearly a great employment generator and rate provider for the Bedford area.”
The Committee voted unanimously to approve the outline application with all matters reserved except access (20/00076/MAO).
by John Guinn
Local Democracy Reporter
with additional reporting by
Erica Roffe
