11th October 2016: Luton Business Improvement District (BID) has submitted comments to Luton Town Football Club in support of its two development proposals.
Feedback from town centre shops and businesses in relation to the planning applications for the significant developments at Power Court and Newlands Park (the site off Junction 10, M1) was largely positive.
However, a number of issues were raised. These have been collated and submitted by Luton BID and will be addressed as part of the planning process:
- Impact on economic growth/potential retail and leisure displacement – Luton BID has requested a plan to ensure the developments do not drive business away from the town centre, in particular the retail space being proposed in Newlands Park.
- Continuity of parking charges – Luton BID has asked for a parity in parking charges in the town centre and at the Newlands Park development.
- Lack of office space on Power Court – the potential for Grade A office space at Power Court should be explored as an integral part of the planning process.
- Parking provision at Power Court – more clarity on the dedicated parking spaces at Power Court for the use of town centre businesses is required.
- Impact of traffic and crowds – more detail on how traffic flow and road access on match days will be carefully managed has been requested.
Gavin O’Brien, Chair of the Luton Business Improvement District (BID) and co-director of town centre based business Clearhead, explained: “The proposals for the two developments are very exciting and reflect the BID’s overall vision and strategic objectives.
“We strongly believe that the plans in general have the potential to raise the standards in the town and help improve the overall perception and visitor experience of the town centre. We are very pleased to show our support to Luton Town Football Club.”
More information on the development proposals can be found – https://www.2020developments.co.uk/index.php