Great News for Elstow Residents

Following objections from Liberal Democrat Cllr Tim Hill and the local residents, the Planning Committee at Bedford Borough Council have chosen to reject an application to build on The Swan car park in Elstow.

During a site visit, the Committee examined the potential impact of the proposal to build on the car park of the former pub. In particular, they looked at the possible damage to the heritage and character of the area, and the road safety implications.

Cllr Hill said: "The Planning Committee rightly reflected concerns about the loss of important heritage views, in particular of Moot Hall. This refusal also shows that the concerns of local residents have been listened to, especially regarding the dangerous blind spot at the Church End junction and the additional car parking on the High Street.

However, the Planning Committee did approve the Listed Building Consent application to convert the former pub building into a residential home. Cllr Hill expressed his delight saying: "This is a sensible use of a regrettably redundant building. If the developer comes back with an application that meets local residents concerns, the developer could expect my support.

"I wish to place on public record my thanks to the Planning Committee for two good decisions."