Local Conservatives argue council tax was not raised enough under Lib Dems, despite opposition to rises

Bedford Borough Council’s Conservative administration has cited an independent report to argue that council tax was not raised enough under the Liberal Democrats, despite having opposed tax…
Local charity to celebrate 30th anniversary with “30 for 30” campaign

Local mental health charity Bedfordshire Open Door is celebrating its 30th anniversary with a campaign to raise awareness of the challenges facing young people and to raise funds to continue…
Wixams council complaints “have created an atmosphere of suspicion” as no action taken on some

A number of complaints made about Wixams councillors have been resolved with no further action, while others remain under assessment, Bedford Borough Council has confirmed…
Private security initiative extended for further month after “successful” opening weekend

Peter McCormack, who is leading on the private security initiative in Bedford Town centre, says the first weekend of the trial “worked as a deterrent” and has committed to a further month…
Police pay rise “welcome” but concerns remain over Bedfordshire’s share

The government announced an additional £120 million in funding to support a 4.2 percent pay rise for police officers, but it remains unclear whether Bedfordshire will receive enough to cover the full cost…
Bright Emotions CIC awarded Sport England grant to deliver Movement is Medicine

A community interest company (CIC) in Bedford has been awarded a Sport England grant to deliver a movement project that is proven to help people reconnect with themselves, manage…
Policing for the people: Why public policing is the bedrock of a safer Bedford

In my most recent column, I wrote about the importance of rejuvenating our town centres, and particularly Bedford Town Centre. I am revisiting this topic again, this month as we’ve now got…