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9 November 2026
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Blake Stephenson MP

Bedford Borough Council political parties collage

‘You are all to blame’: Government inspectors’ stark message to all political groups at Bedford Borough Council

Opposition parties and the Conservative administration at Bedford Borough Council are divided following a highly critical government inspection report highlighting a combative political culture...
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The reopening in June 2026, Luton’s Hat Factory stands as a symbol of local cultural vitality and community cohesion. Image: Shaun Armstrong/The Culture Trust Luton

Bedford Ian writes…

Blimey Blakey, Free flow, and Privileged parking. Bedford Ian has been looking at recent goings-on across Bedford Borough and tells us what he thinks of it all…
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The Rt Revd Richard Atkinson, the Bishop of Bedford. Image: Diocese of St Albans.

Bishop of Bedford joins backlash over Bedfordshire MP’s controversial ‘no-go zone’ claims

Richard Atkinson, the Bishop of Bedford, has written to Mid Bedfordshire MP Blake Stephenson to express his profound disagreement over controversial migration claims...
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Blake Stephenson. Image: LDRS

Bedfordshire Police deny “no-go zones” claims by Mid Bedfordshire MP

A Bedfordshire MP and shadow Conservative Home Office minister has come under fire after comments he made at the party's annual conference, saying there are "no-go zones"...
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On 19 August 2026, tourism minister, Stephanie Peacock attend a roundtable with local authorities, MPs and stakeholders to discuss the opportunities arising from Universal's planned theme park and resort in Bedford. Image: DCMS

Bedford hosts cross-party summit to discuss Universal UK resort growth

Ministers, MPs, and leaders from eight councils gathered at The Swan Hotel in Bedford to coordinate plans, jobs, and infrastructure upgrades for the landmark Universal UK theme park proposal...
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Universal Globe at theme park. Image: Universal Destinations & Experiences

Mohammad Yasin MP joins regional leaders for Universal roundtable 

Mohammad Yasin (Labour) MP for Bedford and Kempston, joined DCMS Minister Stephanie Peacock MP and local authority leaders from across the region in Bedford for a…
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Close up view of J13 M1 highway (A421 Bedford MK) signs against cloudy sky in England Image Pajor Pawel Shutterstock

Petition calls for M1 Junction 13 upgrades ahead of Universal Studios opening

A new petition demands urgent government funding to upgrade M1 Junction 13, warning local drivers face total gridlock when Universal Studios opens in 2031 alongside major housing...
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Draft beer being poured into a pint glass.

MP launches second annual Mid Bedfordshire pub of the year competition

Local MP Blake Stephenson has launched his second annual Pub of the Year competition to find the best pub in Mid Bedfordshire in 2026. The contest will…
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A photo of Andy Burnham, former Mayor of Manchester, speaking to a crowd of people

Six prime ministers in a decade: how Bedford views Britain’s political upheaval 

The UK continues its period of political uncertainty following the resignation of prime minister Keir Starmer, marking the sixth prime ministerial departure in 10 years and causing Labour...
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PM Keir Starmer being interviewed by media at Bedford Family Hub, St Mary's Church Hall, Goldington 8 January 2026. Image: Bedford Independent

Bedfordshire MPs react as Prime Minister Keir Starmer announces resignation

Bedfordshire MPs have reacted after Sir Keir Starmer announced he will step down as Labour leader and Prime Minister once a successor is chosen this summer. Speaking outside 10 Downing Street on Monday...
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