Help shape the future of your area.

From 20th July, people who live and work in the Oxford-Cambridge Arc are asked to contribute to the long term development of the area, through an online government consultation. 

Download the consultation: https://placebuilder.io/futureofthearc

A new plan aims to enhance the infrastructure, environment and new developments across the Arc region: Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire, North and West Northants, Bedford and Central Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes, Cambridgeshire and Peterborough.  It will be developed by government, informed by engagement with local communities and stakeholders, and will have sustainability at its core.

This public consultation is the first of three that will guide the development of this new 'Spatial Framework' over the next two years. Comments received in this consultation will help create the Spatial Framework’s vision for the area to 2050, and will help guide local planning and investment decisions in four areas; the environment; the economy; connectivity and infrastructure; and place-making. 

Peter Horrocks CBE, SEMLEP's Chair said, “the spatial framework consultation is a golden opportunity for businesses across the Arc to make the case for a highly innovative and environmentally sustainable future for our area. I urge everyone to get involved to shape an ambitious vision."

To ensure that sustainability is embedded in the Spatial Framework, the government is also seeking views on work done on an initial Sustainability Appraisal. The consultation closes at 11.59pm on 11 October 2021. 

Neus Garriock, SEMLEP Private Sector Deputy Chair said, "the publication of the first phase of the Arc Spatial Framework is a key milestone for all of us in the region, residents and businesses alike.

"I would urge all local businesses to take this unique opportunity to have your say on the future of the Arc – you can set the agenda and clearly articulate what needs to be in place for you, as organisations, to deliver sustainable growth and opportunity for years to come.

"As local residents, businesses and other organisations contribute to the development of the vision for the Arc they will be playing an active role in defining the new spatial policy and highlighting where the required investments on planning and development ought to take place.

"The Arc gives us all a once in a lifetime opportunity to positively shape our region through its built environment. With sustainability and green growth at its heart, it has the potential to play a pivotal role in local and national recovery post-Covid – I would like to encourage the business community to use its voice to good effect and clearly articulate what a successful, growing, sustainable local economy should look like.”