The Council has launched its vision for a new Local Plan with a video that offers a glimpse into the Central Bedfordshire of tomorrow.

Combining a blend of shots filmed in and around local towns and villages, the video – which can be viewed on the Council's YouTube channel – outlines how new developments needn’t mean losing the area’s best-loved qualities.

In the video, Cllr Nigel Young, Executive Member for Regeneration and Strategic Planning, says: “Our new Local Plan will preserve our countryside and the unique character of our towns and villages whilst delivering sustainable growth to meet the needs of our current and future residents.

“We’re planning for a range of high-quality new homes to meet a wide range of needs, including starter homes for first-time buyers, larger homes for growing families and specialist accommodation for older people. These new developments will be supported by high-quality infrastructure and transport improvements.”

Starting out at a brand new housing development in Silsoe, the video captures the vision with images of Greensand Ridge and the Chilterns, before visiting the village of Ampthill.

Images of the Amazon, Nissan and Woburn Safari Park sites demonstrate Central Bedfordshire’s strong economy and the construction of the Woodside Link and the A5-M1 Link underline the delivery of major infrastructure.

Priory View in Dunstable showcases accommodation for older people, and the soon-to-open new Flitwick Leisure Centre represents the Council’s high-quality leisure facilities.

All local authorities must develop a Local Plan setting out a vision and a framework for the future development of the area, which will include meeting the Government’s revised housing projections. It is a basis for addressing needs and opportunities, safeguarding the environment, adapting to climate change and securing good design in communities.

The first stage in developing Central Bedfordshire’s Local Plan begins on Monday, 22 February, 2016, with the launch of a Call for Sites, an exercise to identify land that may have potential for development.

The plan will be underpinned by a range of studies, including options for growth, a review of greenbelt, a sustainability appraisal and economic market assessments.

The Council wants to make sure local residents and businesses are involved in the development of the Local Plan.

More details, useful information and supporting documents will be made available over the coming months on here.