Bedfordians are being urged to help shape the future of their local parks, leisure facilities and community spaces as Bedford Borough Council launches its draft 2050 local plan.
The council wants local people to share their views on how neighbourhoods across the borough should grow and develop over the next 20 to 25 years.
The ambitious vision sets out priorities for green spaces, local facilities and new infrastructure alongside major regional projects such as the Universal United Kingdom Resort and regional transport upgrades.
Community priorities
The consultation focuses on gathering ideas for neighbourhood-level improvements, including new community venues, open spaces and local development projects.
Local people are also invited to give feedback on policy direction and help decide how potential development sites should be assessed and chosen across the borough.
Cllr Andrea Spice (Conservative/Wixams & Wilstead), portfolio holder for economic prosperity, planning, housing and regulatory services, said: “Don’t miss your opportunity to share your thoughts and help shape the future of the whole of Bedford Borough.
“This consultation is a chance for you to share ideas or suggest land suitable to build homes, businesses or community spaces, so we can decide where development should happen.
“As one of our key priorities, your feedback will directly inform how we get the right mix of homes and jobs alongside the local services, including the leisure and green spaces we want, while protecting our most valued assets.
“Together, we can make the Borough an even better place to live, work and spend time.”
Consultation deadline
Local people can take part by visiting the online consultation portal at localplan.bedford.gov.uk, registering and submitting their comments before 11.59pm on Monday, 23 November 2026.
The council has also extended its call for sites deadline to match the consultation closing date, allowing landowners and developers to submit land for housing or employment opportunities.
Anyone needing further information can email planning.policy@bedford.gov.uk or telephone 01234 718070.
