Replacement footbridge at Queens Bridge, Stafford Road, Bedford

What was proposed

A new footbridge would replace the demolished bridge on its existing foundations, crossing the river between the park and Kempston.

“Planning permission is sought for a new footbridge to replace a recently demolished footbridge, to be located on the existing footbridge foundations. The previous bridge was removed for safety reasons due to the poor condition of the bridge.”

“Planning permission is sought for a new footbridge to replace a recently demolished footbridge, to be located on the existing footbridge foundations.”

Officer report

Why officers supported it

Officers considered the connection necessary and found the proposal acceptable for flooding, appearance, access, ecology and neighbouring amenity, subject to conditions.

“The proposal will provide a much-needed connection between Queens Park and Kempston and is acceptable in terms of flood risk following the submission of a revised flood risk assessment, visual impact, highway safety and access, ecology and neighbouring amenity. It is therefore recommended that planning permission be granted, subject to the conditions set out.”

Officer report

What consultees said

The town council, environmental health, Natural England and the Environment Agency raised no objection, with the Environment Agency requiring mitigation measures.

“Kempston Town Council No objection Highways (Development Control) Officer No comments received Env Health & Trading Standards No objection Scientific Officer No comments received Principal Engineer (Bridges Structures And Street Lighting) No comments received Natural England No objection Nature Space (Newts) No comments received Open Spaces Society No comments received Ramblers Association No comments received Countryside Access Service (Public Rights Of Way) No comments…”

“2nd response - No objection subject to mitigation measures proposed in submitted Flood Risk Assessment. Bedford And Milton Keynes Waterway Trust No comments received…”

Officer report

Who spoke

Councillor Nawaz made a statement on the application.

The committee vote

The committee resolved to grant permission in accordance with the planning recommendation.

“That permission be granted in respect of the above application in accordance with the recommendation of the Head of Planning and Building Control.”

Minutes

The decision

Permission was granted for the replacement footbridge, subject to conditions including a minimum crest soffit level of 29.077 metres AOD.

“- 136 - RECOMMENDATION: Grant Permission subject to the following conditions:-”

“The development hereby permitted shall be begun before the expiration of 3 years from the date of this permission. REASON: In accordance with Section 91 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990, to prevent the accumulation of unimplemented planning permissions. The development hereby approved shall be carried out in accordance with the plans and documents listed on this notice, unless required otherwise by a separate planning condition of this permission.”

Officer report