Residents across Shortstown are being encouraged to take part in an important local survey that will help shape the future of the village.
Households will have recently received, or will soon receive, a small green leaflet inviting them to share their views as part of the early stages of creating a Shortstown Neighbourhood Plan. The information gathered through this consultation will play a vital role in setting out what local people value about Shortstown and how they want it to develop in the years ahead.
Neighbourhood Plans are a key planning tool. At a time when there is no up‑to‑date Bedford Borough Local Plan and the borough cannot currently demonstrate a five‑year land supply, communities without a Neighbourhood Plan have limited protection against speculative development. A made Neighbourhood Plan can carry significant weight in planning decisions and help ensure that development reflects local priorities.
A recent example can be seen nearby in Cotton End, where a made Neighbourhood Plan was instrumental in the refusal of a speculative housing application.
To encourage participation, residents who complete the survey by 30th May 2026 will be entered into a free prize draw. Prizes include:
- An overnight stay at D’Parys, Bedford
- A meal for two at The Hangar Cafe and Bar
- A £20 gift card for The Barn, Cardington
Residents can take part by scanning the QR code on the leaflet. Anyone who needs a paper copy of the survey can request one by emailing tom.middleton@shortstown-pc.gov.uk.
Every response matters. Taking a few minutes to share local views now will help ensure Shortstown has a stronger voice in planning decisions and a clearer say in its future.
