Local and National development schemes and government involvement

Question 1

Bishop’s Stortford Goods Yard development.

Answer 1

In March 2017, councillors unanimously approved plans to build 586 homes at the Goods Yard. This will also see the development of a 55-unit care home, 85 bed hotel and 2 multi-storey car parks with 996 spaces for additional train station parking.

However the scheme has been criticized, primarily by residents, as it involves development on greenbelt land - which may lead to a reduction in biodiversity in the area. Furthermore, it is also likely to exacerbate the already big issue of traffic congestion in the area.

Question 2

What are the aims of HS2?

Answer 2

It’s main target is to reduce the North South divide in the UK by reducing journey times between London and “The Northern Powerhouse”. This should encourage investment in the North as well as provide more jobs. It should also provide employment for its construction.

Question 3

Arguments supporting HS2.

Answer 3

1.Reduction in journey time from London to Birmingham from 1 hour 21 minutes to 52 minutes.

2. Carbon neutral transport scheme.

Question 4

Arguments against HS2.

Answer 4

1. 2010 estimates of the total cost - £33 billion
   2019 estimates of the total cost - £77 billion
   As of February 2023, £27 billion has already been spent.
2. Phase 2 has been cancelled. This means HS2 will not connect cities like Manchester and Leeds to London. Therefore such cities won’t experience much investment as a result.
3. Threatens 33 sites of special scientific research and 108 ancient woodlands.
4. Threatens species such as willow tits (which have already seen a 94% decline since the 1970s)

Question 5

Stansted Airport Expansion

Answer 5

In October 2023, plans put forward by the Uttlesford District Council for the expansion of Stansted Airport - allowing it to facilitate 43 million passengers per year - were approved by the national government.

This expansion is expected to cost £1.1 billion, increase the terminal size by 16,500km², create 5000 jobs and introduce”state-of-the-art check-in desks” as well as increased baggage capacity and next-gen luggage scanners.

Question 6

Chesterford Research Park

Answer 6

This is a science park located in Uttlesford, Essex which has attracted primarily pharmaceutical and biotech companies such as AstraZeneca, Domainex and Nodthera. It has excellent access to the nearby city of Cambridge via the M11 as well as London via Audley End Station (roughly 1 hour train journey. This has been a major contributing factor in attracting investment due to the accessibility for highly educated young professionals looking for high-paying quaternary sector jobs.