Land South of Wixams Proposals

The land at Land South of Wixams is included as a draft allocation (HOU15) in the emerging Bedford Borough Local Plan (2040), which included supporting Bedford Borough Council through the Local Plan examination process. The site is adjacent to Wixams Village 2 and was identified by the council as being a sustainable location and suitable for allocation for residential development and open space.

The proposals are for up to 375 homes including a policy compliant affordable housing provision, 22ha of public open space and community facilities such as sports pitches, a community centre, a local shops and mobility hub.

Site Location

The site is located to the south of Wixams and comprises two parcels. The larger parcel sits to west of the A6, immediately adjacent to the new settlement of Wixams Village and it will be the focus of the new homes. The smaller parcel is to the east of the A6 and is proposed for landscaping and ecological uses. The site is approximately 55ha in size, of which 22ha will be public open space.

Land South of Wixams will promote sustainable living close to existing and upcoming community facilities and the new Wixams station. It will provide attractive new and improved pedestrian and cycle links to make walking and cycling the preferred means of travel. 

Site Location Plan

The new neighbourhood will enhance the health and well-being of the community, designed to be beautiful and inclusive and with a variety of homes to respond to local needs. A generous woodland area together with a network of well managed open spaces will provide ample opportunities for sports, play, food production, relaxation, recreation and contact with nature.

Land South of Wixams will be an environmentally responsible development with the aim to become a carbon zero neighbourhood.

Proposals

A green infrastructure network including; new open spaces and green corridors with existing and new native planting, alongside sports and play areas that are accessible to all.

A new area of publicly accessible woodland in the more sensitive land to the south/south east which will also redefine the settlement gap, secure a permanent green buffer between Wixams and Wilstead and provide a noise buffer to the A6.