1,100-home development at The Met Office RAF Cardington, Shortstown, Bedford

“The current application (supported by an Environmental Statement) seeks a hybrid planning permission for: (1) Outline planning application (all matters reserved except for means of access in respect of junction arrangements onto the A600) for up to 1,100 residential dwellings (including Use Classes C2/C3), a local centre, mobility hub, primary school, open space, play space, sports facilities, allotments, landscaping and associated infrastructure and works; AND, (2) Full…”

“- 32 - imposed on any grant of full planning permission or at the reserved matters stage in respect of the outline element of the proposals. Members are also asked to note the number of public benefits that would result from the proposals: a sizeable contribution towards the Council's housing supply, a contribution to the provision of affordable and mobility housing within Shortstown, a contribution to the aims of the Forest of Marston Vale and biodiversity net gain, a…”

“The northern part of the site is bound by open, arable fields with the A421 bypass beyond (approximately 470m from the site). To the east lies the A600 (High Road) from which vehicular access to the development would be taken. Beyond High Road on its eastern side the landscape is dominated by the two Grade II* listed airship sheds known as Shed No.1 and Shed No.2.”

“To the west of the site are open arable fields, with the John Bunyan Trail (Elstow Bridleway 4 / Wilstead Bridleway 14) located between 320 and 480m further to the west. The southern part of the site is bound by Shocott Spring. This is a relatively new community woodland forming part of the Forest of Marston Vale initiative and extends to approximately 52 hectares in area. Planting of the woodland began in 2005 and was completed in early 2011.”

“In total, 29 no. representations (including 1 no. from CPRE Bedfordshire) have been received in response to the publicity served of which 26 no. have objected to the application. The remaining 3 no. representations provide comments but neither expressly support nor object to the application.”

“The development would not be adequately served by primary healthcare and associated services nor by a secondary school nor SEND services – requiring a financial contribution towards extended services will not suffice. The development would have a harmful impact on the adequacy of existing infrastructure;”

“The Principal Planning Officer provided an update as follow:”

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