Oxford-Cambridge Arc Housing Growth Update

Bringing together the 31 local planning authorities and 4 Local Economic Partnerships (LEPs) that comprises the large area of the Arc has been likened to herding cats. The Arc area is no doubt a multi-layered and complex environment in which to plan. However, at the recent RICS place-making seminar for the Oxford-Cambridge Growth Arc, the enthusiasm of the speakers, including from SEMLEP, Homes England, and the Arc Leaders Group, extolling the opportunities that exist for innovation and economic growth which the Arc can bring, was inspiring. It is hoped that the Arc Leaders Group will shortly receive government approval and funding for an Arc Framework Plan. This is intended to be an evidence-based document looking at where growth can be accommodated within the Arc area and how the infrastructure to support it will be delivered. It might even go so far as to apportion housing growth between areas. However, this will not be a statutory plan and as such will not have a legal basis and could not be enforced.
Milton Keynes is well placed to be part of the overall delivery of the Arc agenda, with its central location. Milton Keynes Council firmly embraces the principles of the Arc as embodied in its MK Futures 2050 document, a plan for growth. Bedford, too, with the recent rail link announcement, appears to be thoroughly on board and staffing up its planning department to cope; whilst in Oxford, Oxford North, the £500 million new innovation district for the city, recently received committee approval. The new district attracts £15.9 million of national government infrastructure funding and will provide affordable homes and high-quality workspace for start-ups such as high-tech university spin-outs with three new parks and thousands of new trees.
Northamptonshire should also benefit from this alignment of Oxford and Cambridge, being within striking distance of the economic generator of London. The new West Northamptonshire Strategic Plan has an Arc growth-related option in its recent Issues consultation. The next consultation on the West Northamptonshire Strategic Plan is likely to be in September this year following further growth-related studies.
The next generation of built development appears to be on its way. I sincerely hope we, in Northamptonshire, can be part of this bright new world (not to mention the government funding that comes with it!). To discuss, please contact Val Coleby on 01536 532388 email val.coleby@berrys.uk.com.