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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.

Telecare service costs to remain despite local Lib Dem opposition

A Bedford Borough Council committee has confirmed it has no concerns over plans to introduce a weekly charge for its previously free Telecare service, despite Lib Dem opposition and a predicted drop in usage...

Application made for new children’s care home in Kempston

A six-bedroom house in Kempston could soon become a care home for vulnerable children, under plans submitted to Bedford Borough Council. The application proposes a change of use from a private home...

Legal e-scooters could be coming to Bedford as council reviews trial application

Bedford Borough Council has said it will review the government’s new e-scooter plans to see if they would "benefit" the borough. On 21 July, the Department for Transport (DfT) has opened an application...

FOI uncovers Central Beds’ behind-the-scenes talks with Universal Studios

Central Bedfordshire Council held informal but high-level talks with Universal Studios, pitching them as 'partners' for the potential project, just days after news of plans for the...

Lib Dems accused of contradictions on CIPFA report validity as Bedford Borough council faces finance scrutiny

A bombshell independent finance review has sparked a political blame game as Bedford Borough Councillors clash over the actual state of the authority’s finances and the credibility...

Roxton plan for 50 homes given second chance by planning inspector

Bedford Borough Council’s decision to refuse a housing development in Roxton has been overturned by a Planning Inspector – even though it conflicts with the local plan...

Proposals for three ‘drive-throughs’ but no supermarket at new Interchange development

A planning application has been submitted to Bedford Borough Council proposing a mixed-use development on land south of Interchange Way, west of Ampthill Road. But plans for a Lidl...

Watchdog orders Bedford Borough Council to release Fusion contract

Bedford Borough Council has been ordered by the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) to release information about the closure of its contract with leisure operator...

Bedfordshire fire engines involved in 11 collisions in three months, report reveals

Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service vehicles were involved in 11 collisions between January and March, a meeting heard on Tuesday (15 July). A report presented to the Fire and Rescue...

Unregistered care home in Wootton given planning permission despite previous reservations

A retrospective planning application for an unregistered care home in Wootton has been approved by Bedford Borough Council’s Planning Committee - a month after it was “minded” to refuse...

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