For years, Bedford has suffered from a total lack of strategy in Planning. Whether it's new developments or individual planning applications, there is no framework for decision making that people can see and understand. The current Mayor does not have any clear vision of what he wants for the Borough therefore, every application is dealt with in isolation on an individual basis, rather than within a clear overall picture of how great Bedford should be.
The planning process in Bedford Borough needs a fundamental and far-reaching, service focused review. Planning Officers find themselves in impossible positions with huge caseloads, backlogs and pressures that are not apparent in neighbouring councils. The result is that Bedford Council cannot hold on to good officers, who are tempted away by better working conditions elsewhere.
It is the current Mayor’s responsibility to look at this seriously and not deny the many problems. The Bedford public is being let down time and time again with poor quality service. Additionally, planning enforcement of non-compliant development is virtually non-existent.
Tom Wootton wants to see a totally different approach to planning that works for all Bedford residents and businesses.
