BT1798 Retail Study Local Plan

The council requires the production of a Town Centre and Retail Study as evidence to support the new Local Plan. The most recent Retail Study was previously undertaken by WYG Planning & Environment in July 2015. The study will also help inform other Council initiatives and projects where appropriate including those related to improving health outcomes.

The methodology used within the study must consider the requirements of the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) and Planning Practice Guidance (PPG) including ensuring the sequential approach to new floorspace provision, maintaining the vitality of town centres and planning for retail and other town centre uses.

The study should comprise:

A review of relevant retail policy and guidance including the National Planning Policy Framework, Planning Practice Guidance, best practice, Luton Local Plan policies and Supplementary Planning Guidance.

Consideration of relevant Luton Council strategies and documentation including the Council’s 2040 Vision.