New guide sets out the future of development in Central Bedfordshire

The council is proposing to deliver 31,000 new homes and 27,000 new jobs by 2031 in order to keep up with population growth. The new plan aims to ensure high standards of design are followed.

This includes ensuring that homes and gardens that are of a decent size, that there is adequate parking and that all new developments are welcoming and safe places to live.

The revised Central Bedfordshire Design Guide, was put together following extensive consultation with the development industry and published last week.

Councillor Nigel Young welcomed said: “One of the council’s key priorities is to deliver decent homes in areas where people want to live.

“We want to make sure that development isn’t just about numbers of houses – it’s about providing people with good-sized, quality homes that they really love and want to live in for many years – rather than just being a short-term investment.

“These new standards will do just that, and ensure that Central Bedfordshire continues to a great place to live and work.”

The Design Guide sets out clear guidance for developers about the minimum size for bedrooms, cooking, living and eating areas, the need for rooms to receive enough daylight to make them comfortable, as well as ensuring that properties have sufficient storage space.

Developments are also required to have sufficient parking to prevent congestion, with consideration given to both on and off-street parking. There is also clear information about garage sizes, with space allocated for storing bicycles and other household items where applicable.

The guide offers guidance on the need for minimum sizes for gardens and outdoor space, with the emphasis on being able to play and relax in safety and privacy.

Developers and agents can also find advice on integrating green spaces and enhancing biodiversity, as well as specific guidance on other specific types of development including extra care housing, residential and nursing care homes, and other large-scale buildings including schools, leisure centres and warehouses.

For more information visit www.centralbedfordshire.gov.uk/planning/strategic-planning/urban-design.aspx