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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.

Locals divided over proposed mini-supermarket on Goldington Road

A supermarket giant is planning a new convenience store on Bedford’s Goldington Road, sparking a debate over the future of local businesses. Asda Stores Limited is seeking a premises licence...

Tense meeting sees Borough Council’s planning department accused of ‘failing residents’

A Bromham councillor has accused the borough’s planning department of 'failing residents' at a tense council meeting. Ward councillor Robert Rigby (Conservative) said it was leaving Bromham “exposed”...

1,100 homes approved near Shortstown despite environmental objections

Plans for up to 1,100 homes south of Shortstown have been approved, despite a warning from Anglian Water that the Bedford Water Recycling Centre is already exceeding its permitted flow...

Developer argues Bedford Borough Council not meeting legal housing duty

A patch of land could be opened up for new housing after the developer argued that Bedford Borough Council is failing to meet its legal duties. Aragon Land & Planning has submitted a...

Bedford Borough Council left waiting to balance its books with ICB yet to agree funding for children’s health care

Bedford Borough Council has included a contribution from the NHS towards the cost of supporting children with significant health needs in its savings plan – but the local Integrated Care Board (ICB)...

Bedford car storage plans at former gospel hall delayed

A decision on plans to turn a former Bedford gospel hall into a vehicle storage and valeting centre has been delayed for a site visit after residents raised concerns about traffic and noise...

Councillors vote against 149 new farmland homes

A housing scheme in Wilstead has suffered a setback after councillors went against planning advice and voted “minded to refuse” an application for up to 149 homes on farmland off Bedford Road...

Price increases proposed for Bedford Borough Council services

Bedford Borough Council is proposing to increase the majority of its fees and charges by around 10 per cent from December 1, 2025 as it tries to close a growing financial gap...

Bedford schools absence rates “among the best” despite post-Covid rise

Bedford Borough Council says pupil absence rates in the Borough are “among the best” of its statistical neighbours and remain below both regional and national averages, despite rising...

Huntingdonshire boundary change plan involving Bedford Borough ‘land grab’ slammed

The leader of Central Bedfordshire Council has accused Huntingdonshire District Council (HDC) of “highway robbery” with a scheme to take land from Bedford Borough and Central Bedfordshire councils...

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