Business-led neighbourhood plan for central Milton Keynes passes referendum

The Central Milton Keynes Alliance Plan 2026 was prepared by local residents and business leaders, who have worked together on the project since 2012. In a referendum of local businesses held on 7 May, 88% of participating businesses voted in favour of the use of the plan to help guide planning decisions in the city's central area. The plan also received the support of 84% of participants in a referendum of local residents held on the same day.

The plan proposes the construction of nearly 5,000 new homes in central Milton Keynes by 2026, including affordable and social homes and the development of apartments. It promotes the diversification of retail, leisure, community and cultural uses in the town's main shopping area and the provision of more offices to attract jobs.

Sites are identified in the plan for two major institutions, with the stated aspiration that one of these sites might be occupied by a "major university". Sites are also identified for a public transport hub in the main shopping area and new sports, community and medical facilities. The plan also provides for a new public events' space, a boating marina on the Grand Union Canal and a covered market hall "to complement and enhance the outdoor market".

Milton Keynes Council is expected to adopt, or 'make', the plan as part of its development plan at a meeting of its full council on 10 June.

Planning expert Marcus Bate of Pinsent Masons, the law firm behind Out-Law.com said: "The greatest surprise is that there are not more business-led neighbourhood plans at this stage of the plan-making process. Positive locally-led neighbourhood plans are a vital source of much-needed stimulation to the vitality and diversity of our town and city centres."