Biggleswade Town Council has voiced its strong opposition to the proposed development of Land North of Biggleswade since 2018, when the Local Plan was being produced, highlighting the negative impact it will have on the town. While the Town Council does not have decision-making authority over planning, it actively submits comments and ensures its concerns are presented to planners and the Development Management Committee at Central Bedfordshire Council (CBC).
An initial application for development was submitted by Hallam Land Management in December 2019. Shortly after, on 14 January 2020, the Town Council resolved to oppose the application. Since then, the Town Council submitted multiple objections as the application was modified, culminating in the Development Management Committee’s rejection of the application in August 2023.
Hallam Land Management appealed this decision in April 2024, prompting another formal objection from the Town Council. To strengthen its case, the Town Council commissioned expert legal and planning support from Copperfield Land & Planning Ltd., Paul Mew Associates, and No5 Barristers’ Chambers. They presented their findings at the Appeal Inquiry held in August 2024.
In addition, the Town Council was concerned about CBC’s poor handling of the planning appeal process. On 30 September 2024, the Town Council sent a letter to CBC’s Chief Executive and CBC’s Leader of the Council, outlining these issues. The letter has now been published on our website. There has been no response from CBC.
Despite the Town Council’s extensive efforts, on 6 November 2024, the Planning Inspectorate upheld Hallam Land Management’s appeal, although subject to multiple conditions.
Although very disappointed with the outcome, the Town Council has reaffirmed its commitment to defending the interests of Biggleswade and its residents.
Before the appeal was determined, Hallam Land Management submitted a second planning application, which attempts to address issues raised in the original proposal. The Town Council has issued three formal objections to this further application, which are publicly available on our website. Although the first application has been approved by the Planning Inspectorate, Hallam have not withdrawn the second application, which includes a new road round to the Potton Road/Baden Powell Way roundabout. We understand that it will go to Development Management Committee on 11 December 2024.
Biggleswade Town Council will persist in opposing this second application and any future development to the north of Biggleswade.
For updates and more information, follow the Town Council’s website or call 01767313134.