Bedfordians, including individuals, businesses and community groups, are being urged to have their say on Bedford Borough Council’s budget proposals for 2026/27, which aim to save £11.5 million next year as part of wider efforts to close a £32 million funding gap.
The formal consultation, which runs from Monday, 20 October to Tuesday, 18 November, asks for feedback on a series of proposals designed to stabilise the council’s finances while protecting frontline services.
£11.5 million savings plan
As previously reported by the Bedford Independent, the savings plan includes a review of staffing levels, reduced funding for voluntary services, and changes to library opening hours.
Read: £11.5m Bedford Borough Council savings plan includes cuts to staff, voluntary service and libraries
It follows warnings from the Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy (CIPFA) that the council faces a “significant risk” of running out of money unless urgent steps are taken to rebuild reserves and reduce spending.
Earlier this month, the council said that the £11.5 million target for 2026/27 represents the first stage of a broader Financial Improvement Programme aimed at restoring long-term stability.
Call for public feedback
Cllr Marc Frost (Conservative, Wixams), Portfolio Holder for Finance and Corporate Services, said: “These are extremely challenging proposals for what is an extremely difficult time.
“Like all councils across the country, we are facing financial challenges because of higher demand for services, especially in Children’s Social Care, Adults’ Social Care and Temporary Accommodation.
Although we have managed our finances well, we still have a budget gap of £32.5 million for the next financial year.
“This means we will face difficult decisions when setting the 2026–2027 budget, but we remain committed to directing resources to essential services while ensuring efficiency and value for money.”
The council says the consultation aims to gather views on how best to deliver efficiencies, raise service quality and focus spending where it is most needed.
How to take part
The consultation is open until midday on Tuesday, 18 November. Responses can be submitted online at bedford.gov.uk.
Hard copies of the consultation survey are also available from Bedford Borough libraries during staffed hours, or from the Borough Hall reception on Horne Lane.
Locals can request a copy by emailing consultingbedford@bedford.gov.uk or writing to Consulting Bedford, Borough Hall, Cauldwell Street, Bedford, MK42 9AP.
