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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.

Petition launched to save Moor Lane green space

A petition has been launched opposing plans to build new homes on the Moor Lane green space in Bedford’s  Cauldwell Ward. The petition, addressed to Bedford Borough Council, objects...

Resident raises safety and consultation concerns over proposed Kempston children’s home

A “local resident” has formally objected to plans to convert a house in Kempston into a children’s care home, arguing that neighbours have not been given enough information about who will live...

Further plans submitted for development of 10 homes in Oakley

A development of ten new homes in Oakley has taken a step forward after more detailed plans have been submitted to the council. The 0.9-hectare site sits behind accessed via a track opposite...

National procurement rules followed says council amid solar panel supply chain controversy

Bedford Borough Council followed national procurement rules when sourcing solar panels for its renewable energy projects, but did not carry out any independent checks to verify...

New flats planned for Grafton Road

A Bedford Edwardian semi-detached house could become four one-bedroom flats if plans are approved – despite offering no on-site parking. The planning application for 32 Grafton Road...

Keysoe equestrian centre submits retrospective planning permission for all-weather surface

A retrospective planning application for an all-weather surface at College Farm Equestrian Centre in Keysoe has prompted mixed public comments, with several supportive responses...

Bedfordshire Police to target A6 street racing after complaints from locals

Bedfordshire Police has written to Bedford Borough Council following a petition by local people concerned about dangerous driving, car cruising and street racing along the A6 corridor between...

House of Industry trustees approve funding deal for Citizens Advice and support for Bedford Credit Union

Bedford’s House of Industry Estate trustees have agreed a three-year funding deal worth more than £262,000 for Citizens Advice Bedford (CAB). But they delayed a separate...

Borough councillors to receive same well-being services as council staff after rise in pressure and abuse

Bedford borough councillors have backed a new Member Mental Health and Wellbeing Policy, saying the growing pressures of public office mean elected representatives need clearer support...

Kempston parish boundary changes put on hold after report errors

A review that could change which parish some Kempston residents belong to, and who represents them, has been put on hold after borough councillors criticised errors in official documents...

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