Dear editor,
I read the recent letter calling for greater respect for Bedford with considerable interest. Like the author, I believe our town has enormous potential, and I recognise the frustration of residents and businesses who want to see meaningful improvements.
Read: What we were promised vs what we are getting – It’s time to respect Bedford
Last week’s publication of the government’s independent Best Value Inspection report into Bedford Borough Council makes the need for action even more pressing.
The report paints a concerning picture of the council’s leadership, governance and finances. Worryingly, Inspectors identified a lack of clear vision and recommended external intervention.
Read: Damning inspection reveals bullying and leadership collapse at Bedford Borough Council
Whatever our political views, these findings should concern everyone who cares about Bedford.
With the council facing significant challenges, it seems increasingly unrealistic to expect them alone to deliver the improvements our town centre needs.
Perhaps now, more than ever, we should be asking not just what the council can do for Bedford, but what we can achieve ourselves by working together.
Familiar challenges
The challenges are familiar: antisocial behaviour, empty shops, declining footfall and a town centre that too often lacks compelling reasons to visit.
Yet Bedford has a fantastic community of independent businesses, hospitality venues, retailers and organisations.
Imagine them pooling their resources to deliver a coordinated programme of events, markets, festivals and entertainment, supported by effective marketing, town centre improvements and a stronger collective voice.
This is precisely the opportunity a Business Improvement District, or BID, could provide.
A BID allows businesses within a defined area to vote on collectively funding additional services and improvements, establishing shared priorities and delivering measurable results.
I led the campaign against Bedford’s previous BID, which businesses voted not to renew in 2024. But I have always believed that a well-run BID could offer something valuable to our town.
Read: “Time to go,” town centre campaigner says change at the top needed to create a Better BID
My aim was to challenge the previous organisation to be bolder, more inclusive and far more transparent.
Proactive organisation
A BID shouldn’t simply report graffiti or antisocial behaviour.
It should be a proactive organisation, actively working to make Bedford a better place to visit, work and do business, with proactive and creative campaigns, initiatives and incentive.
Read: BedfordBID voted out after businesses lose faith in their plans for town centre
Any new proposal must demonstrate that lessons have been learned, with genuine business involvement, accountability and a clear, data-led focus on results.
It doesn’t replace the council or police fulfilling their responsibilities but should help to give a clear view of what the town’s businesses feel is needed.
Town centres have changed. Shops alone are no longer enough. People need experiences, culture, hospitality and reasons to return.
With opportunities such as Universal’s planned development and East West Rail on the horizon, Bedford should be preparing to make the most of them.
But before deciding whether a new BID is the answer, we need to understand what businesses, residents and visitors actually want.
That’s why I’ve launched a short survey exploring people’s experiences of Bedford town centre, what needs improving and what would encourage them to visit more frequently.
For businesses, it also asks whether there’s an appetite for a new BID and what its priorities should be.
This isn’t a campaign asking businesses to commit to another levy. It’s an opportunity to start a conversation, establish common priorities and explore whether there’s sufficient support to work towards something better.
I’d encourage everyone who cares about Bedford’s future to share their views.
The council undoubtedly has considerable challenges ahead, and we should all hope it succeeds in addressing them. But Bedford’s future is too important to depend entirely on that process.
We can continue debating what Bedford has lost and who is responsible, or we can work together to shape what it might become.
Tim Edwards
Bedford business owner
