Central Bedfordshire Council has launched a ‘Call for Sites’, asking landowners and residents to suggest brownfield land that could be redeveloped to meet future demand for homes and jobs, and other land uses such as green spaces, education and local facilities.

As part of recent engagement, around 3,000 people shared their views on what makes a great place to live and what the future of Central Bedfordshire should look like as the Council starts work on a new Local Plan – the blueprint for growth in the area.

One of the things residents wanted to see was more redevelopment of brownfield land – land that has been built on previously and is now maybe empty or derelict. 

The brownfield ‘Call for Sites’ is the next step in the council’s fresh approach to plan-making and is a request  for submissions of land that could be transformed, enhancing the local community and reducing the need to develop greenfield sites.

Anyone can submit a site and it doesn’t matter if you don’t own the land yourself. You can still make suggestions from your local knowledge, although the council will need to have landowner support to take it forward.  

Cllr Adam Zerny, Leader of Central Bedfordshire Council, said: “We want our residents to shape the future of our area, and we’ve heard from thousands of people saying how much they want to preserve green spaces and the unique character of our towns and villages. Maximising the development opportunities of derelict or unused buildings and sites is one way we can do this.

"We recognise the need to provide new homes and jobs for the next generation, so younger people have the chance to buy their first homes near family and friends, and for people downsizing to stay close to their roots.

“Developing a Local Plan is a long process, and there will be many opportunities for people to have their say as the plan develops. But one way everyone can make a real difference now is suggesting local derelict sites that could be considered for future development.”

Sites can be submitted online using this link: http://www.centralbedfordshire.gov.uk/call-for-sites from Monday 4 November until Monday 2 December 2024.