Plans for up to 400 new homes on farmland at Gibraltar Corner, Kempston, have taken a step forward.
This follows a formal request from the developers asking Bedford Borough Council to rule that the scheme does not require a full Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA).
The request, submitted on behalf of Axis Land Partnerships Limited, relates to 21.24 hectares of land split across two parcels on either side of Home Road, on the rural edge of Kempston.
If approved, the residential-led development would include new open space, walking and cycling routes, and areas proposed for woodland planting.
The developers have said the proposed development is “unlikely” to have significant environmental effects and therefore should not be subject to a full EIA .
Three Grade II listed buildings, including Kempston House, lie close to the site, but the developers say effects on heritage assets would be minimised through buffers, open space and landscaping.
Bedford Borough Council must now issue a formal screening opinion, which will determine whether a full environmental impact assessment is required before a planning application can be submitted.
More information can be found on the council’s planning portal, reference 25/02531/EIASCR.
by John Guinn
Local Democracy Reporter
