As I thought, a vaguely positive but entirely non-committal response. We know that DCMS officials are continuing with the negotiation process (I think this is being led by Sam Lister, one of the DCMS Director Generals, so a very senior official, just one step down from the Permanent Secretary). We think that agreement is close, so hopefully when Lisa Nandy and Chris Bryant meet with Universal it will be to finalise this current stage of the process. Perhaps this will take place in August, but I’d guess September is more likely. This would tie in with what Bedford Council have timetabled for their response to a statutory consultation which must take place before the Special Development Order can be agreed.