Policy information sourced from the Houghton Regis Neighbourhood Plan
TC5: Local Centres
Proposals for the change of use or re-development of shops or public houses in the Local Centres, which would result in the loss of such facilities, will be resisted unless:
- There are other facilities performing the same function within easy walking distance of the community (10 minutes walking time); and/or
- The facility no longer meets the needs of the community; and
- The applicant provides sufficient and demonstrable evidence that the facility is no longer viable in its current form.
Where the above tests are met, the site/building must firstly be considered for alternative community infrastructure uses, in consultation with the local community, and only where an alternative community infrastructure use is demonstrated to be unviable or unsuitable, may other uses be considered acceptable
Proposals for new retail development within the Local Centres should include the provision of appropriate facilities for waste collection and recycling.
For more information, please visit the Houghton Regis Neighbourhood Plan