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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.

Report reveals Fusion still owed six-figure sums well after its contract ended

Bedford Borough Council has released a confidential report revealing that former leisure contractor Fusion Lifestyle Ltd still owed significant sums months after its contract ended...

Planned new elective care hub at Bedford Hospital makes progress

Plans for a new six-storey Elective Hub at Bedford Hospital have taken a step forward. Bedfordshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust has asked Bedford Borough Council to decide...

Parent’s concern over child safety and Universal Studios

A parent in Stewartby fears their children’s safety could be put at risk if a huge Universal Studios theme park is built nearby, warning that large numbers of strangers in the area could...

Bromham councillors back calls for more time over plans to build 315 new homes

Plans to build 315 homes on land south of Northampton Road in Bromham have been deferred for a second time, after councillors backed calls for more time to secure concessions from the developer...

Developer for 95 new homes in Turvey asks if Environmental Impact Assessment is needed

A developer has asked Bedford Borough Council to rule on whether its plans for 95 new homes in Turvey will need a full Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA). In a request submitted under the Town...

Grade II listed buildings on the High Street could become new HMOs

A terrace of Grade II listed buildings in Bedford town centre could be transformed into a 12-unit House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) under new proposals submitted to the borough council...

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...

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...

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