The council is seeking resident input on the challenges and opportunities facing Bedford Borough, and the priorities that should guide its growth and development. This initiative aims to gather ideas on potential improvements, such as new facilities and open spaces, the direction of new policies, and how development sites across the borough should be assessed and selected.
The consultation outlines an ambitious vision for the borough as an innovative and vibrant river town, featuring world-class leisure, education, and entertainment facilities, connected communities, and accessible nature. Major investments, including the Universal United Kingdom Resort and enhanced transport links, are expected to create new jobs, homes, and opportunities.
Councillor Andrea Spice, Portfolio Holder for Economic Prosperity, Planning, Housing and Regulatory Services, urged residents to participate. "This consultation is a chance for you to share ideas or suggest land suitable to build homes, businesses or community spaces, so we can decide where development should happen," she stated. "Your feedback will directly inform how we get the right mix of homes and jobs alongside the local services including the leisure and green spaces we want, while protecting our most valued assets."
Residents can share their views via the online consultation portal at localplan.bedford.gov.uk. The deadline for submissions is 11:59pm on Monday 23 November. The call for potential development sites from landowners and developers has also been extended to align with this date.
For further information, interested parties can email planning.policy@bedford.gov.uk or call 01234 718070.
