Peabody has received planning permission in principle from Central Bedfordshire Council for 54 new homes in Linslade, bringing welcome progress in providing more affordable, family-sized housing for local people.

Around 40 per cent of the homes will be family sized, with three or more bedrooms, helping to meet the strong local need for family homes.

The plans, which are subject to the completion of a Section 106 agreement, will bring the new homes to land off Soulbury Road, close to Linslade Wood. The council had previously earmarked the site for housing as part of its local plan.

The development will focus on outdoor space, with more than 2,000 square metres of public areas, new green spaces with trees, and a children’s play area. All homes will have a private garden, terrace, or balcony.

The plans include a mix of homes for rent, shared ownership and private sale, and Peabody wants as many of the homes as possible to be affordable. All homes are designed with enough space for families to live comfortably.

The homes will also be easy to get to and from, with nearby bus stops, the railway station about a 20-minute walk away, and plenty of space to store bikes.

Simon Barry, Regional Managing Director for Development at Peabody, said:

“We know how hard it is for families to find an affordable home with enough space locally. This approval is good news for Leighton Linslade, helping more people find a secure home that meets their needs.

“We also know that access to green space and nature are important to people, and these plans include careful measures to protect wildlife, with new planting designed to sit gently alongside the surrounding nature.”