Housing plan for 227 homes gets the go-ahead

The plans, by Bellway and Bloor Homes, had been fiercely opposed by neighbours with three petitions, including one with more than 1,500 names.

They said the scheme, for land north of Potton Road in the town, but outside the town’s settlement envelope, would put more pressure on the infrastructure of the area already struggling with a raft of planning applications and developments in the area.

Local MP Alistair Burt also opposed the scheme, along with Biggleswade Town Coumcil.

But councillors at Central Bedfordshire’s Development Control committee on Wednesday were told the lack of a five year plan from the council made it difficult to justify turning planning applications down.

Councillors also argued the scheme would make the current parking situation in the town worse but were told the recently announced consulation on parking strategies in the borough could answer that situation.

After a long discussion on the plans, councillors agreed unanimously to pass the scheme.