EXTENSIVE CONSULTATION Lioncourt has engaged extensively with the local community to guide the proposals, including hosting a well-attended public exhibition, engaging with Bedford Borough Council officers and elected members, including ward and parish councillors and the Mayor, and meeting local amenity groups such as the Biddenham Society, the Friends of Biddenham Pond and the Friends of St James’.
RESPONDING TO COMMUNITY CONCERNS "Access needs to be carefully considered to minimise the impact."
After conducting a comprehensive traffic assessment, Gold Lane was chosen as it has the least impact on local traffic.
“Based on the assessment of the application and the mitigation measures proposed there are no highway objections to the proposals” Bedford Borough Council’s Highways (Development Control) Officer "Junction improvements are needed to mitigate the impact of the development." “No objection”
Bromham Road will be upgraded at the new junction and the Applicant will also contribute funding towards improvements at the A4280/Deep Spinney/The Great Ouse roundabout junction.
Highways England.
"The Urban Open Space Gap between Bromham and Biddenham cannot be compromised."
The proposed development has been reduced at the north and west of the site so that the Bromham Biddenham Gap is not harmed physically or visually.
“The proposed development would not significantly undermine the development plan objective of preserving the urban open space” Bedford Borough Council Officer’s Report "Hedgerows need to be retained where possible."
The majority of the existing hedgerows will be retained with new hedgerow planted as part of the wider scheme.
“There would be no significant harm given the majority of the hedgerow would be retained… new hedgerow planting as part of the wider landscaping scheme would mitigate the losses proposed.” Bedford Borough Council Officer’s Report "Sensitive areas of the site, such as the Biddenham Village Pond needs to be respected."
The parameter of the scheme has been reduced to limit development to the north and west of Duck End Lane.