75 homes at 108A - 130A Milton Road, Clapham, Bedford

What was proposed

Outline permission was sought for up to 75 homes, including affordable and custom-build housing, with access and supporting infrastructure.

“The Application seeks - Outline Planning with all matters reserved except access for erection of up to 75 dwellings, and all necessary supporting infrastructure including the construction of an access road onto Milton Road, internal access roads, footways, parking, open space, play area and landscaping, drainage, utilities and service infrastructure works (the 'Application').”

Officer report

The site

The 3.82-hectare site is mainly grassland and shrubland beside Milton Road, outside Clapham’s settlement boundary, with access requiring demolition of an existing house.

“The application site measures 3.82ha in area and is mainly grassland and shrubland, along with an area of land used for storage, however this use is considered unlawful. The proposal would include the demolition of No.126 Milton Road to provide access to the site.”

“The application site is located to the east of Milton Road to the rear of the existing dwellings that front it, and to the west of Twinwood Road (private road).”

Officer report

Consultation and objections

Most technical consultees raised no objection subject to conditions, while the parish council objected and neighbours raised concerns about access, traffic, flooding, wildlife and infrastructure.

“Highways (Development Control) Officer No objection subject to conditions Waste Services Manager No objection British Horse Society No objection subject to bridleway link being provided Countryside Access Service (Public Rights Of Way) No objection subject to securing the RoW links proposed Clapham Parish Council Object to the proposal Scientific Officer No objection subject to conditions Flood Investigation Officer No objection Police Architectural Liaison Officer Request…”

“- 91 - * Construction traffic and parking * Against the Neighbourhood Plan policies and the Bedford Local Plan * Loss of and impact to wildlife * Not considered the 500 dwellings approved opposite the site and the combined impact they will have on local infrastructure * No additional infrastructure proposed to cater for the additional residents * Noise pollution * Light pollution * Concern over self-build properties and the prolonged building period…”

Officer report

Who spoke

The Principal Planning Officer gave an update, and the parish council’s continuing opposition was reported following meetings with the planning officer and applicant’s agent.

The committee’s decision

The committee granted permission in accordance with the Head of Planning and Building Control’s 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