The Bedford Borough Local Plan 2040 was submitted for Examination, with Hearing Sessions held during 2023. In November 2023, the Planning Inspector raised significant concerns about the soundness of the plan, particularly around the deliverability of key infrastructure. Without sufficient justification and supporting evidence, the Inspector indicated that the plan may need to be withdrawn and a new strategy adopted.

Since then, the Council has been working to address the Inspector’s concerns. However, the proposed Universal Studios theme park in Bedford has introduced major new planning considerations that were not accounted for in the submitted plan.

As a result, the Inspector has now advised that the plan is no longer capable of being made sound and has recommended its withdrawal.

At its recent meeting, the Council’s Executive resolved to recommend that Full Council:

  1. Note the Inspector’s response dated 10 June 2025.
  2. Agree to withdraw the Local Plan 2040 from the examination process.
  3. Authorise the Head of Planning & Building Control to begin work on a new Local Plan to 2046, along with a revised Local Development Scheme, taking into account the Inspector’s advice and other current circumstances.

This recommendation is expected to be considered by Full Council in August 2025.

The Bedford Local Plan 2030 remains in force and continues to provide the statutory framework for development. Planning applications will continue to be assessed against its policies, alongside national planning policy.

As of January 2025, Bedford Borough Council can only demonstrate a 3.46-year housing land supply, which is below the required five years.. This shortfall means that the Council is currently vulnerable to speculative development proposals, particularly where they can demonstrate sustainability and compliance with national policy.

Opportunities which currently exist for Developers and Landowners are:

  • Promotion of new sites or revisiting previously discounted proposals—particularly those aligned with emerging infrastructure and economic priorities.
  • Engagement early in the new plan-making process to help influence future growth strategies.
  • The current housing land supply shortfall may provide a window of opportunity for well-prepared planning applications.

We encourage you to check back regularly for updates and to contact us for advice and support with your projects.