Jobs and homes plan is under discussion

Central Beds Council is launching a public consultation about its draft development strategy.

This sets out how the council will deliver 28,700 new homes, 27,000 new jobs and supporting infrastructure to meet demand until 2031. The document has received unanimous support from the full council.

Central Beds Councillor Nigel Young said: “We are not changing for change’s sake but to make certain that we have homes for residents at all stages of their lives.

“We need to have a sound infrastructure in place that will ensure good access to jobs, services and facilities such as schools, healthcare and leisure and excellent transport links.

“The council is committed to ensuring that we will meet this demand in a way that respects and protects the natural environment and local heritage.”

The consultation will be open from Monday, January 7 to Monday, February 18. You will be able to give your feedback online at www.centralbedfordshire.gov.uk/strategic-planning

Forms will also be available in the libraries and at the council’s customer service centres.

The strategy will be submitted to the secretary of state in May then considered by an independent planning inspector. It will probably be adopted in February 2014.