Bedford Borough Council considers new Local Plan in response to Universal Studios
The Plan, which sets out policies and proposals for future development, could be changed to reflect economic projections linked to Universal
Bedford Borough Council is expected to consider withdrawing its current Local Plan 2040 and beginning work on a new plan, in response to the anticipated arrival of Universal Destinations & Experiences in the area.
The move follows a letter from the Planning Inspectorate advising the Council that continuing with the current plan would not be appropriate, given the significant economic and infrastructure changes expected from Universal’s proposed development.
A Local Plan is a formal document produced by a local authority that sets out planning policies for the area, covering future housing, employment, infrastructure, and other key development issues.
The Council had been progressing its 2040 Local Plan, but the scale of the potential Universal project – which is expected to bring around 28,000 direct and indirect jobs, attract millions of visitors, and generate substantial economic growth – has led to a reassessment.
In a letter to the Council, Darren McCreery of the Planning Inspectorate wrote:
“Given the implications of Universal, the likely outcome of a review and the work following it would be the production of a fundamentally different plan to the one submitted.
“Such changes, including how to realise the opportunities of Universal, are instead best discussed with local communities outside the scrutiny of a plan examination. This would more closely align with the National Planning Policy Framework’s aim of a genuinely plan-led system, with plan making creating a framework for meeting needs, addressing priorities, and a platform for local people to shape their surroundings.”
On the feasibility of continuing the current examination, McCreery stated:
“In terms of taking things forward, in the combination of specific circumstances presented in this case, I see no reasonable way for the examination of the Plan to continue.
“Instead, I would strongly recommend that the plan is withdrawn and that the Council resolve to work in partnership with their local community to bring forward a new plan, away from the scrutiny of an examination.”
The Council will decide whether to follow this recommendation at a future meeting of the Executive, with the matter also to be considered by Full Council.
Bedford Borough Mayor Tom Wootton said:
“This is another example of how the expected arrival of Universal Destinations & Experiences is a fantastic opportunity for Bedford Borough – and for us to ensure we’re ready to reap the benefits and plan for our future.
“Bedford is the perfect place for this investment – well-connected, full of talent, and ready to grow. Now let’s make sure we do it right.”
The Council confirmed that while work begins on a potential new Local Plan, existing adopted policies and neighbourhood plans will remain in place and continue to guide planning decisions where applicable.