Inquiry concerning Cross-boundary Development Known as South West Milton Keynes concludes

28 Jun 2021

Planning and Environment

A 9 day multi-party planning inquiry concerning highway impacts on road networks in Milton Keynes has concluded. The South West Milton Keynes Consortium (comprised of Taylor Wimpey; Bellcross; Connolly Homes; Hallam Land and William Davis) appealed against the refusal of planning permission by Milton Keynes Council for two access roads to facilitate the delivery of over 1,800 homes on a site in Buckinghamshire. The development site (including another access) lies in the administrative area of Buckinghamshire Council and is allocated as a mixed use sustainable urban extension in the emerging Vale of Aylesbury Local Plan.

Milton Keynes Council refused permission on transport grounds, alleging that there was insufficient evidence to demonstrate that the mitigation would adequately address the impacts on the road network. Newton Longville and West Bletchley Parish Councils appeared as a Rule 6 party, objecting to the development on highways grounds. Buckinghamshire Council also appeared as a Rule 6 party. The main issue concerned whether there would be severe residual cumulative impact on the road network or unacceptable impact on highway safety.

Tom Cosgrove QC acted for Milton Keynes Council