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Local Democracy Reporter

Written by the BBC's Local Democracy Reporter named at the end of the article.

The Local Democracy Reporting Service was created to help strengthen coverage of local public bodies and ensure communities have access to trusted, independent reporting on decisions made in their name.

Funded by the BBC and delivered in partnership with local news organisations, the scheme supports dedicated journalists to report on councils, public services and other democratic institutions. Their work helps residents better understand how decisions are made, how public money is spent and how those decisions affect everyday life.

For the Bedford Independent, the Local Democracy Reporting Service plays an important role in maintaining regular, detailed coverage of Bedford Borough Council and other local public bodies, supporting our wider commitment to public-interest journalism, transparency and accountability.

Stewartby rail sidings to be reopened for Elstow quarry restoration

Planning permission to use rail sidings near Bedford to transport material to restore Elstow South Quarry has been granted. The permission was for the operation of three sidings...

Labour candidate for Castle and Newnham says it’s time for a change

Labour’s candidate for the Castle and Newnham Ward said residents have made it very clear to him that they’re ready for a change. Sam Blacklaws has been selected by the Bedford...

Dental hygiene advice should be health priority for Bedfordshire Care Board

Providing health and care services in Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes is not just about providing access to services, it is about providing targeted advice on prevention as well...

Bedfordshire’s new top cop promises to make county safer for all

Bedfordshire Police’s new chief constable said his vision is to make the county a safe place for all its communities. During the Bedfordshire Police and Crime Panel’s Chief Constable Confirmation...

Acting Chief Constable the only applicant for Bedfordshire Police top job

Acting Chief Constable Trevor Rodenhurst was the only person to apply to take over the role of Bedfordshire Police’s new chief constable. But PCC Festus Akinbusoye says he’s the...

Council hit by rising costs of temporary accommodation for homeless

Bedford Borough Council is providing a safety net for the homeless because of a “failing” government policy, a senior councillor... has said. A report to the Budget and...

MP’s senior caseworker selected as Labour candidate for 2023 local elections

A Labour candidate for Bedford’s Goldington Ward said his experience as a local MP’s senior caseworker will ensure that if elected he’ll be able to stand up for residents from...

Number of smokers in Bedford Borough at all time low

The latest national data has found that fewer than 1 in 10 Bedford Borough residents are smokers, a meeting heard. This is below the national average of 13.3% according to...

Severe outcomes of strep A are “very, very rare” says public health director

Parents and carers need to be aware of strep A symptoms, but severe outcomes are “really very, very, rare” says the director of public health. Wednesday’s Health and...

Bedfordshire Police to charge for “babysitting” and other non-policing jobs in other counties

Bedfordshire Police will be sending out bills to pay for officers carrying out duties for other local authorities, the PCC has said. The topic of non-policing tasks having to be carried out...

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