www.centralbedfordshire.gov.uk Latest News

Residents invited to shape the future of transport in Central Bedfordshire

Tue, 30 Jun 2026 14:39:00 +0100

We have launched a consultation on our draft Local Transport Plan, setting out a long-term vision for an easier, safer and greener transport system that works for everyone.

The plan is aspirational, helping the Council secure funding and support wider change. It includes actions the Council can deliver directly, alongside others that will depend on securing additional funding.

A wide range of data, research, and feedback from residents, businesses and partners has informed the plan, alongside national and local policy.

The vision is for Central Bedfordshire to be: ‘a place where people have access to a sustainable and future proofed transport system that provides a variety of attractive and realistic travel choices'.

It is built around four key themes:

Helping people to live happier, healthier lives

supporting businesses and communities to thrive and prosper
making transport safer and more equitable for everyone
preserving and enhancing Central Bedfordshire’s special natural and built environment.

Cllr John Baker, our Executive Member for Finance and Highways, said:

The Council is keen to hear from residents, businesses and visitors - whether you travel by car, public transport, on foot, by bike, riding or wheeling. This is your opportunity to help shape a transport system that supports our communities, protects our environment and offers better travel choices.

We want to hear from as many people as possible. Transport affects everyone, and your feedback will help make sure we’re focusing on the right priorities for the future.

Our question is simple - are we heading in the right direction?

The consultation is quick and simple to complete. Feedback will help shape the final plan and guide future investment in transport across the area.

Have your say at: www.centralbedfordshire.gov.uk/consultation
Consultation closes: Sunday 20 September 2026

Olympic and Paralympic stars open new £33.9m leisure centre

Mon, 29 Jun 2026 09:04:00 +0100

The centre was officially declared open on Saturday, 27 June 2026, by British Olympic athletics legend Colin Jackson CBE and Paralympic swimming champions Maisie Summers-Newton MBE and Olivia Newman-Baronius who joined councillors, partners and residents for the special ribbon-cutting ceremony.

More than 3500 residents attended the Family Fun Day on Saturday, eager to be among the first to experience the new centre. Visitors enjoyed a packed programme of free activities, tours, demonstrations and family entertainment, as well as the opportunity to meet and interact with the sporting stars.

Adding to the vibrant atmosphere on Saturday morning was a high-octane live set for some of the first workouts in the brand-new facilities delivered by local rising star DJ Steady, the youngest DJ ever to perform in Ibiza.

The celebrations continued on Sunday, with further activities and opportunities for the community to explore the impressive new facilities and take part in taster sessions. A series of other celebration events are being held by Everyone Active across Central Bedfordshire leisure centres, for details go to everyoneactive.com

The new centre replaces Tiddenfoot Leisure Centre and offers a wide range of modern fitness, leisure and community facilities, including:

An eight-lane, 25-metre swimming pool
A learner pool with movable floor and a dedicated splash pool
A 150-station gym with Technogym equipment
Group exercise, cycling and Reformer studios
Two squash courts
Wellness facilities, including hydromassage beds
Three treatment rooms available for hire
Community rooms and meeting spaces
A public café
Two fully accessible Changing Places facilities

Councillor Steven Watkins, our Executive Member for Assets, Business and Housing, said:

We are proud to officially open our fifth new leisure centre, demonstrating our long-term commitment to improving opportunity and quality of life across our communities. The facilities here are outstanding, with something for everyone, whether you’re getting active, trying something new or simply coming along to enjoy the space. With its range of leisure and community facilities, we hope it will become a real hub for local people and be enjoyed for many years to come.

Gary Foley, Everyone Active’s contract manager, said:

It was fantastic to see so many people come along over the weekend to celebrate the opening of this brilliant new centre. There was a real buzz on the day, from families trying out activities to meeting our Olympic and Paralympic guests, it really felt like a special moment for the community.

The launch was an amazing opportunity for people to experience activities for free and get a taste of what the centre has to offer. We were so privileged to have GB stars Colin Jackson, Maisie Summers-Newton and Olivia Newman-Baronius attending, and they really enjoyed meeting the public and getting involved.

It was a really memorable day, and it was great to see so many people coming down to join in the celebrations.

The centre has been designed to be inclusive, accessible, and welcoming for everyone in the community.

Central Bedfordshire Council have funded improvements to local bus services, delivering more journeys, better reliability and easier access to the Leisure Centre, including new evening and Sunday services to give people greater flexibility while making the network simpler to use.

More information about the new centre and its facilities is available on the Everyone Active website. Leighton Leisure and Community Centre - Everyone Active

Housing Matters – June 2026

Fri, 26 Jun 2026 17:20:00 +0100

Interview: A tenant and a trusted voice

Joanne shares her experience of joining the Landlord Assurance Board

Joanne has been a Central Bedfordshire Council tenant for 28 years, living in both Houghton Regis and Dunstable. Like many residents, she hadn’t initially considered getting involved in shaping housing services, but a visit to a local event changed that.

At a tenants’ day at Houghton Regis Leisure Centre, Joanne spoke with a member of our Tenant Involvement Team, who encouraged her to put her name forward for the Landlord Assurance Board. After completing an application form, she was invited to a short online interview and later received confirmation that she had been successful.

“At first, I didn’t really think much of it,” says Joanne. “But since joining in November last year, I’m 100% behind it.”

Having now attended several meetings, Joanne describes the experience as a real eye-opener. Sitting alongside senior staff and service directors has given her a new perspective on how decisions are made and the challenges housing teams face.

“It’s made me see the human side of the housing team,” she explains. “You start to understand why certain decisions are made and the volume of work they’re dealing with. I’ve got a newfound respect for what they do. I probably didn’t have the best view before, but now I have more understanding.”

The Landlord Assurance Board brings together tenants and senior officers to review performance, discuss key issues, and explore where services can improve.

For Joanne, one of the most important aspects has been feeling heard. “I’ve never really felt like the council listened before, but they do listen here. Being able to have your say is actually quite therapeutic. It’s still early days, but I do feel like it’s making a difference.”

Her involvement has also shifted her overall outlook, giving her a better understanding of how and why decisions are made, as well as a greater appreciation of the challenges housing teams face. She now encourages other tenants to consider getting involved, especially those who are open-minded and enjoy discussion.

For Joanne personally, the role has brought additional benefits too. “I’ve had to stop working due to MS, so this helps keep my brain active. It’s good for me, as well as helping improve services for others.”

Joanne hopes to continue her involvement and would encourage others to take that first step, because having your voice heard can make a real difference.

Find out more about the Landlord Assurance Board

Members of the Landlord Assurance Board recently visited Oakley Green

Tenant members of our Landlord Assurance Board recently visited Oakley Green in Leighton Buzzard to see first-hand some of the work our Neighbourhood Operations team has been carrying out in the area.

During the visit, board members looked at the new bin stores and improved signage we have introduced to help residents recycle more easily and reduce fly-tipping. They also heard about new approaches to cleaning communal areas and saw improvements that have been made to outdoor spaces.

Upcoming home visits and safety inspections

We'll always contact you in advance before any planned visit or inspection.

Throughout the year, we carry out a range of visits and inspections in our council homes. Some help us understand the condition of our homes and plan future improvements, while others are carried out to make sure homes remain safe and meet legal requirements.

If we need access to your home, we'll always contact you in advance to arrange an appointment and explain what to expect.

Home condition visits

Since 15 June 2026, we have been carrying out home checks across our council homes to help us understand the condition of our properties and plan future repairs and improvements.

Earlier this year, we visited around 20% of our council homes. We will now be carrying out a further 500 home visits with our housing consultant, Savills (UK) Ltd.

These visits help us keep our records up to date and understand when things like kitchens, bathrooms, windows, doors, roofs and heating systems may need repairing or replacing in the future.

This phase of visits will focus on homes where we were previously unable to gain access.

Where possible, we will also carry out a Home Safety Check during the same visit to reduce the number of appointments needed and minimise disruption.

If your property is included in this programme, you'll receive a letter with details of your appointment and information about who to contact if you have any questions.

Safety inspections

We also carry out regular safety inspections and testing in our homes, including electrical safety testing, gas safety inspections and other checks required by law.

These inspections help us identify potential issues early and make sure safety systems are working as they should.

We are legally required to carry out electrical safety inspections at least every five years and gas safety inspections at least every 12 months, or sooner if needed.

To complete this work, a qualified contractor will need access to your home. They will carry identification with them, so you know they are working with us. Electrical inspections can take a few hours to complete, while gas safety inspections usually take around an hour.

If your home is due a safety inspection, we'll contact you to arrange an appointment. If the proposed date isn't convenient, we'll work with you to arrange an alternative.

We will always contact you before any planned visit or inspection

All contractors and representatives working on our behalf will carry identification. If you are unsure about a visit, please ask to see identification and contact us before allowing access to your home.

Thank you for your cooperation.

These visits and inspections help us keep homes safe and identify any repairs or improvements that may be needed in the future.

One resident who recently had a safety inspection said: "Having the safety checks carried out gave me peace of mind. The person who visited explained that they weren't there to judge the condition of my home, but to make sure everything was safe."

Working together to cleanUP our neighbourhoods

More than 20 tonnes of waste removed as Housing CleanUP Days continue across our communities.

In May, our Neighbourhood Operations team organised two more Housing CleanUP days at Westminster Gardens in Houghton Regis and Meadow Way in Leighton Buzzard.

The events gave tenants the chance to get rid of unwanted bulky items, speak with housing staff and find out more about the help and support available in their area.

At Westminster Gardens, we spoke with 19 tenants, completed 10 pre-booked bulky waste collections and removed around 14 tonnes of waste from the estate.

At Meadow Way, we spoke with 25 tenants, completed a further 10 bulky waste collections and removed around 7 tonnes of waste. Tenants also took part in surveys, helping us better understand what matters most to people living in the neighbourhood.

Teams from FCC Environmental Services and MoveALL Services helped collect and remove more than 20 tonnes of waste across the two events, while the Dog Warden was on hand to offer advice to pet owners.

These were the latest Housing CleanUP Days to take place this year, with more planned across the area. As well as helping clear unwanted items, the events are a chance to improve shared spaces, keep estates looking their best and make neighbourhoods places people can be proud to call home.

Thank you to everyone who took part and helped make a difference in their community.

A reminder about our zero-tolerance approach to abuse

No one should face abuse for doing their job

Our staff work hard every day to support residents and help resolve issues. Most interactions are positive and respectful, and we are grateful for the understanding and cooperation shown by the vast majority of residents.

We recognise that problems with your home or our services can be frustrating. We are committed to listening to concerns, answering questions and finding solutions wherever we can.

Unfortunately, there has recently been an increase in incidents where staff have experienced abusive, threatening or intimidating behaviour. This can include offensive language, personal insults, harassment and threats.

This kind of behaviour can have a significant impact on the wellbeing of our staff, and we take incidents of abuse towards staff seriously.

Where necessary, we may take action to protect our employees, including placing restrictions on contact or, in serious cases, taking action under tenancy or lease agreements.

If you are unhappy with a service you have received or a decision we have made, we encourage you to let us know. Speaking to your housing officer or using our formal complaints process are the best ways to raise concerns and help us put things right. Make a complaint on our website.

We've updated our compensation policy

Find out what support may be available if things go wrong

We've introduced a new Financial Remedies and Compensation Policy for Housing Services.

The policy explains what residents can expect if our housing services fall below the standards we aim to provide. It sets out when compensation may be considered, how decisions are made and the different ways we may put things right.

Compensation is not always the most appropriate solution. In many cases, resolving the issue, completing outstanding work, correcting information or taking action to improve our services may be the best way to address a problem.

The policy also explains some situations where compensation may be available by law, such as delays to certain qualifying repairs, as well as circumstances where discretionary compensation may be considered following a service failure.

We want our approach to be fair, consistent and transparent, so residents understand what they can expect if something goes wrong and how we will work to put things right.

Read the policy.

Read a summary of the policy.

Help us create a new code of conduct for housing staff

Tell us what you expect from the people who work in our housing service

We're developing a new code of conduct for housing staff and we'd like your feedback.

The code will set out the standards of behaviour residents can expect from the staff who deliver housing services, including how they communicate, how they treat residents and how they carry out their roles.

We want to make sure the code reflects what matters most to tenants and leaseholders. Your feedback will help us shape the standards we set for our staff and the service we provide.

We'd like to hear your views on:

how you expect staff to behave when working with residents
what good customer service looks like to you
the standards you think housing staff should meet
how we can build trust and accountability

To request a copy of the draft code and share your feedback, please contact: tenant.involvement@centralbedfordshire.gov.uk

Closing date: Sunday 5 July, 5pm.

The draft code is based on the Chartered Institute of Housing's Code of Ethics, which promotes fairness, professionalism and putting tenants first.

Other opportunities to talk to us!

Upcoming events for our tenants - get involved!

We really value opportunities to keep in touch with our tenants, and our drop-in sessions are a simple way to do just that. They’re informal, welcoming sessions where you can speak directly with members of the housing team about anything on your mind.

If you’ve got a query about your home, would like some guidance, or simply want to check in with us, please feel free to come along. There’s no need to book – just drop by at a time that suits you and we’ll be happy to help.

We hope to see you at one of the upcoming sessions and look forward to catching up with you. Find a full list of dates and events on our website.

Coffee Meeting, Friday 26 June from 11am to midday

Bedford Street Communal Room, Bedford Street, Leighton Buzzard, LU71JE

Tuesday 14 July from 9:30am to 11:30am

Dunstable Library, The Dunstable Centre, Dunstable, LU5 4JD

Thursday 23 July from 11am to 1pm

Houghton Regis Library, Bedford Square, Houghton Regis, LU5 5ES

Friday 31 July from 10am to midday

Housing Information Hub, Ground Floor Library Building, Lake Street, Leighton Buzzard, LU7 1RX

Monday 10 August from midday to 2pm

Dunstable Library, The Dunstable Centre, Dunstable, LU5 4JD

Tuesday 18 August from 9:30am to 11:30am

Houghton Regis Library, Bedford Square, Houghton Regis, LU5 5ES

Thursday 27 August from 2pm to 4pm

Housing Information Hub, Ground Floor Library Building, Lake Street, Leighton Buzzard, LU7 1RX

Share your views with us!

Help us continue to improve our housing service

We want to make sure you can contact us in the way that works best for you, and your views are essential to this process.

Take our short survey and tell us how you prefer to communicate. Whether you're happy with how things are now, or you think we could do better, we want to hear from you. Take part in the survey.

We’re always looking for ways to improve, but we can’t fix what we don’t know about. Your feedback helps us make things better for everyone.

Comments, compliments, complaints and service requests

Having your voice heard and providing your feedback is valuable to us. There are lots of ways that you can have your say about our housing service.

Comments

Often people want to suggest improvements to services. If you make a suggestion, we will record this as a comment.

Compliments

If you tell us about a service that has been good or a member of staff who has been helpful, we will record this as a compliment and share your praise with those involved.

Service requests

A service request is a request by you for us to take action to put something right. Service requests are not complaints, but we record them, monitor, and review them for learning and improvements. If we consider the issue raised to be a service request, we will ask the relevant team to reply to you directly.

Complaints

You can complain if you are affected by the way we provide services. Common examples of complaints are delay; poor record keeping; failure to act; failure to follow procedure or the law; poor communication; behaviour of our staff (also called officers); or giving out misleading information.

You can provide any of the above feedback by contacting housing.feedback@centralbedfordshire.gov.uk or you can contact us online.

Luton woman fined for Blue Badge abuse

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 14:24:00 +0100

Audrey Roberts of Cutenhoe Road, Luton was found to be using a Blue Badge when the holder was not present. Roberts had been parked in a disabled bay at Grove View Car Park in Dunstable, where it was established that the Blue Badge holder had not been dropped off or picked up at the location.

Roberts was caught during a targeted enforcement day to tackle Blue Badge fraud on 3 December 2025, where checks were being carried out by Central Bedfordshire Council Officers to assess whether disabled parking permits were being used correctly across Central Bedfordshire.

CCTV footage showed that Roberts returned to the vehicle alone and drove away. The footage also revealed that the car had been parked for nearly four hours, despite Roberts later claiming she had only been in the car park for around an hour.

When interviewed, Roberts claimed that she had driven from the disabled bay to a pick-up point outside Grove View Integrated Health and Care Hub to collect her husband, who allegedly had an appointment. She also stated that she had mistakenly used her mother’s Blue Badge instead of her husband’s. However, when asked to provide evidence of the appointment, none was supplied.

At a court case on 23 June 2026, Roberts was sentenced to a fine of £440 ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £174 and pay a contribution towards costs of £910.

Councillor John Baker, Executive Member for Finance at Central Bedfordshire Council, said:

The government is quite clear on who is eligible for a blue badge, and our experienced team of officers carry out stringent checks to ensure badges are issued appropriately. Misusing a Blue Badge is both illegal and unfair to those who rely on these spaces. This case sends a strong message that we take misuse seriously and will not hesitate to take action against those breaking the rules.

If you suspect someone of illegally using a Blue Badge, you can report it to the Council by calling 0300 300 4154 or emailing benefit.investigations@centralbedfordshire.gov.uk.

Help shape a new green wheel connecting Ampthill, Flitwick and the countryside

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 14:13:00 +0100

We're launched a 10-week public consultation on the long-term vision, which would create a circular green network linking communities with local nature reserves, open spaces and rural landscapes through a combination of enhanced existing paths and new routes.

Find out how to have your say – your voice matters.

As well as encouraging healthier lifestyles and more sustainable travel, the plans aim to improve access to towns, nature and enhance local biodiversity across the area.

We're now encouraging residents, local groups and stakeholders to share their views and help shape the future of the project.

Printed copies of the consultation questionnaire and summary green wheel document will be available throughout the consultation period at the Ampthill Town Council and Flitwick Town Council offices and at both Ampthill and Flitwick libraries. Engagement events will be held in Ampthill and Flitwick soon.

Councillor Wye, our Executive Member for Sustainability and Climate Resilience, said:

This is an opportunity for local people to help create a greener, healthier and better-connected future for Ampthill and Flitwick.

Central Bedfordshire is fortunate to have beautiful countryside, nature reserves and green spaces right on our doorstep. The green wheel would aim to help create better links between our towns and the surrounding countryside, making it easier for people to walk, cycle and enjoy the outdoors.

Over recent years, many people have rediscovered the value of spending time in nature and the positive impact it can have on both physical and mental wellbeing. This project is an opportunity to build on that and create lasting benefits for our communities and environment.

The proposed green wheel has been developed by Central Bedfordshire Council in partnership with Ampthill Town Council, Flitwick Town Council, Bedfordshire Rural Communities Charity (BedsRCC) and The Greensand Trust.

Take part in the consultation today and help shape the future of local walking, wheeling and cycling across Ampthill and Flitwick.

The public consultation will run until 3 September 2026.

Consultation now open on plans to transform Ivel Valley School

Tue, 23 Jun 2026 16:52:00 +0100

Residents, families and stakeholders are being encouraged to have their say as a statutory consultation is now open on proposals to refurbish and develop Ivel Valley School and College.

The consultation follows earlier plans announced by Central Bedfordshire Council to deliver a major programme of improvements to the school, aimed at enhancing facilities for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

The proposals include a combination of refurbishment of existing buildings and development on an adjacent site. Plans aim to improve learning environments, provide enhanced therapeutic and sensory spaces, and ensure the school can better meet future demand.

The consultation provides a formal opportunity for people to review the proposals and give feedback before any final decisions are made.

Councillor Gareth Mackey, Executive Member for Children and Families, said:

We want to ensure that every child has access to high-quality facilities that support their individual needs.

Now that the statutory consultation is open, I would encourage families, staff and the wider community to review the proposals and share their views. Your feedback will play an important role in shaping the future of Ivel Valley School and College.

Take part in the consultation

Following the close of the consultation on 17 August, the Council’s Executive will be asked to consider the responses received and determine the proposal at the meeting to be held on 6 October 2026.

Council to upgrade 11 roads in its summer surface dressing programme

Fri, 19 Jun 2026 13:08:00 +0100

Names of roads being surface dressed:

Luton Road (B579), Toddington
Church Street, Shillington
Park Lane, Henlow
Leighton Buzzard Bypass, Leighton Buzzard
Bedford Road, Brogborough
Luton Road, Chalton
Crawley Road, Cranfield
Icknield Way, Eaton Bray
Broughton Road, Salford
West Hill, Bedford Road, Aspley Guise
ZUC147, Ireland Northill

This essential maintenance programme will run until 24 July 2026, focusing on repairing damage caused by cold and wet weather. The work aims to reduce the risk of future potholes and provide smoother, safer journeys for all road users. Each road will receive surface dressing, followed by activities such as reinstating road markings.

Surface dressing is a quick and cost-effective preventative treatment that seals the road surface, enhances skid resistance and helps protect against water damage. It plays an important role in the council’s highway maintenance strategy, being up to 12 times more economical than full resurfacing and offering a lifespan of around 10 years.

Work on urban roads can typically be completed within 2 to 3 hours, while rural roads are usually finished in less than a day. Several roads may be treated each day, although timings may vary subject to weather conditions.

Following the success of the last few years, the council will again use the innovative Lockchip surface dressing method. This approach enhances both the durability and appearance of road surfaces, while significantly reducing loose chippings to improve safety and minimise the need for clean-up.

Find out more about surface dressing.

Councillor John Baker, our Executive Member for Finance and Highways, said:

It’s only by managing the public finances prudently that we can afford to carry out this work. Since 2023, we’ve taken many difficult decisions to balance the books and whilst the journey ahead remains challenging due to the government’s damaging £33m cut to our funding, it’s great news that we can now progress with these projects.

Surface dressing is a preventative approach so we can address wear and tear early, helping to avoid more serious issues in the future. By continuing to use methods like Lockchip, we’re also improving safety for road users and reducing disruption for local communities.

Dunstable shop closed down for selling illegal vapes and counterfeit tobacco

Thu, 11 Jun 2026 16:49:00 +0100

Mega Romanska, located at 11 High Street South, Dunstable, has been ordered to close for 3 months after Luton Magistrates' Court granted the order on 11 June 2026. The closure order makes it a criminal offence to enter the premises during this period.

Councillor Liz Childs, our Executive Member for Public Protection, said:

This closure order sends a clear message that illegal trading will not be tolerated in Central Bedfordshire. Illicit tobacco and vaping products pose a risk to public health and undermine legitimate businesses, and we will continue to take action to protect our communities.

We’re grateful to the members of the public who came forward with information. Their support was vital in enabling us to take this action and keep our residents safe.

If you suspect a business is selling unlawful tobacco or vape products, or supplying age-restricted products to minors, please contact our Trading Standards Team anonymously.

Find out more about Trading Standards.

Used electricals range launches at Thorn Turn Reuse Shop

Wed, 10 Jun 2026 16:00:00 +0100

The new initiative gives unwanted electrical items a second life so that residents can access affordable household goods and reduce waste.

Available items will include a range of reused:

kitchen appliances
entertainment equipment e.g. televisions, radios, CD players, Hi‑Fi systems
DIY tools
garden equipment such as electric lawnmowers

The electrical items in working order are safety checked, ahead of resale.

Stock will vary regularly depending on donations received, meaning residents are encouraged to visit frequently to see what is available.

Councillor Tracey Wye said:

Many electrical items still have plenty of life left in them, and by reusing and reselling them through our Thorn Turn Reuse Shop, as part of our Waste Strategy, we’re helping residents pick up affordable items while preventing usable goods from going to waste. 

This is a great example of how small changes can make a big difference to reducing waste and supporting sustainability across Central Bedfordshire. 

We hope residents will support the scheme, whether that’s by donating suitable items at our recycling centres or by visiting the shop to see what bargains they can find.

The initiative forms part of our ongoing commitment to reduce waste, increase reuse and support more sustainable living across Central Bedfordshire.

Free parenting app now available for parents of 0-to-5-year-olds in Central Bedfordshire

Tue, 09 Jun 2026 13:23:00 +0100

Find out more about the app – EasyPeasy

The app is now available to parents, carers and early years practitioners across Central Bedfordshire, helping families with children aged 0 to 5 turn everyday parenting moments into playful learning opportunities.

EasyPeasy brings together the best ideas, advice, and inspiration from a diverse community of parents, experts, and brands supporting families with children aged 0 to 5 during the crucial early years.

Parents can access thousands of simple, fun, and educational parenting tips and activities, tailored to their child’s age and development stage, designed to use everyday materials that families already have access to at home.

The app includes information, activities, and tips on a range of topics including:

wellbeing
bedtime
nutrition
speech and language
mindfulness

The EasyPeasy app also allows parents and carers to create and share their own parenting tips and experiences, building peer-to-peer support systems in local communities.

Councillor Gareth Mackey, our Executive Member for Children’s Services, said:

Supporting children in their early years is one of the most important things we can do as a council, and we know that parents and carers play the biggest role in helping children learn and develop.

I am really excited to see an easy-to-use resource that takes the guesswork out of supporting young children’s learning and development. The EasyPeasy app gives families easy access to practical advice, activities and ideas they can use every day at home, helping to build confidence and make learning fun.

I would encourage parents and carers of young children across Central Bedfordshire to download the app and make the most of the free support available.

Residents can download the EasyPeasy app from Apple's App Store or the Google Play store on their mobile devices now.

Improvement plan for housing services

Fri, 05 Jun 2026 12:25:00 +0100

Listening to this feedback, we've developed a new Housing Regulatory Improvement Strategy and Development Plan, outlining how these changes will be delivered and services strengthened.

The plan focuses on key improvements, including:

improved repairs services
stronger health and safety standards in residents’ homes
improved communication and faster complaint handling
more opportunities for tenants to influence decisions
more accurate data to support better services

This work is being delivered through 10 priority areas, including improving governance, increasing tenant involvement, strengthening data and oversight, and enhancing the overall customer experience.

We've already made significant progress in improving its landlord services. This includes completing in-depth reviews to better understand the key issues and putting plans in place to address them.

A new Landlord Assurance Board has been established to strengthen oversight, alongside the introduction of a new housing management system to support more effective service delivery.

Improvements have also been made to how repairs, complaints and safety performance is monitored and reported. At the same time, the Council has created more opportunities for tenants to share their views and help shape how services are delivered.

Building on progress already made, further improvements are underway to address key issues and embed lasting, sustainable change by December 2027.

Councillor Steve Watkins, our Executive Member for Business, Housing and Public Assets, said:

We know how important it is for our tenants to have confidence in the homes and services we provide. This plan is about making real improvements that Council's tenants will see and feel through better services, safer homes and having a strong voice in influencing decision making.

We are committed to listening, improving and making sure our landlord services meet the high standards our tenants deserve.

The improvement plan follows an inspection by the Regulator of Social Housing in early 2025, which identified areas where we needed to improve. Since then, officers have been working closely with the regulator, demonstrating clear progress and ongoing improvements.

Turning investment into impact: 3 years of exceptional delivery

Thu, 04 Jun 2026 14:37:00 +0100

Between April 2023 to end of March 2026, £6.1 million of government funding was invested locally. Independent evaluation showing this has delivered an estimated economic impact of £56.5 million equating to a return on investment of £9.22 for every £1 invested.

These results show how the right funding, delivered in the right way, can make a real difference to residents, businesses, and communities.

The business programme was significantly strengthened by the work of its four delivery partners; WENTA, Chamber of Commerce, Cranfield University, and the University of Bedfordshire. Their expertise, insight, and support were central to achieving strong outcomes for businesses and ensuring high‑quality delivery.

Other delivery partners, including our local training provider Bedfordshire Employment and Skills Academy (BESA), along with grant recipients that included town and parish councils and community groups, also played a vital role in delivering and promoting the programme, sharing success stories and raising its profile across the area.

Every pound of government funding was fully invested, reflecting a firm commitment to Central Bedfordshire, its businesses and communities. While the programme has come to an end, its legacy will continue to deliver benefits for years to come.

Many funded projects will continue to grow, with lasting benefits for residents, businesses, and communities. The partnerships built and insights gained will now help shape future investment and opportunities across the area.

Councillor Tracey Wye, Chair of the Partnership Board, said:

This is a real success story. The return on investment speaks for itself, but just as important are the partnerships, learning and lasting benefits it has created. I want to thank all the teams, delivery partners and stakeholders who worked so hard over the last three years in delivering an outstanding programme and leaving a legacy for our communities.

We're launching a consultation to transform Ivel Valley School

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 10:20:00 +0100

The consultation, which will begin on 22 June, will focus on proposals to deliver 20 new, purpose-built classrooms, the remodelling of 12 existing classrooms into 6 larger improved learning spaces, a hydrotherapy pool, enhanced therapeutic and sensory spaces, improved accessibility, and upgraded outdoor play areas.

This will all be designed to better support children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

The plan prioritises keeping the school community together on its current site, with phased construction to minimise disruption.

Families, staff and the local community will be invited to share their views on the proposed facilities, how the changes will support pupils, and the design priorities that matter most to them.

Councillor Gareth Mackey, our Executive Member for Children and Families, said:

We want every child to have access to a learning environment that meets their needs and supports their growth.

Following recent positive discussions between school leaders, governors and Council officers, my deputy Councillor Liz Childs and I, we are pleased that a shared approach has now been agreed, which focuses on delivering high-quality facilities for children and young people while supporting the long-term future of the school.

We are keen to continue this positive work to improve the learning environment and experience for children along with giving the school’s staff a proper setting to deliver their work.

The proposed new facilities and specialist spaces are the most cost-effective solution and will be a significant step forward for Ivel Valley School, improving experiences for children and families. As we shape these plans together, the consultation will launch later this month when we will be keen to hear your views.

The statutory consultation will begin on 22 June 2026 and will run until 17 August, 2026. It will provide a formal opportunity for all stakeholders to comment before a final decision is made later this year. We will consider feedback to help refine the design and delivery of the new facilities at the school.

New Houghton Regis primary school plans move forward to support growing community

Wed, 27 May 2026 11:33:00 +0100

The proposed new school would open in September 2029 and support families living in Bidwell West, Linmere and neighbouring communities, helping ensure more children can attend a local school close to home as the area continues to grow.

The Bidwell West Primary School, Nursery and Additionally Resourced Provision, Houghton Regis report (PDF), published ahead of being presented to our Executive Committee on 2 June 2026, sets out the latest position and explains the school place planning that has determined the need for the additional places in the area.

As part of regular review of school place planning, we continually assess admissions and forecast data to understand local need. The latest information shows growing demand for primary school places in Houghton Regis and neighbouring communities, and the recommendation reflects that updated picture.

Our latest admissions data for September 2026 shows that all primary schools in Houghton Regis were full at the point of initial allocations in April this year. At the same time, thousands of new homes are still due to be completed across the wider area, adding further neeed to develop new school places.

The updated data, ongoing housing growth and changing pupil movement patterns across Central Bedfordshire, Luton and neighbouring communities have all contributed to the decision to progress plans for the new school.

Councillor Gareth Mackey, our Executive Member for Children and Families, said:

Families rightly want confidence that there will be good quality local school places available for their children as communities grow.

We know how important the Bidwell West school is for local residents and we are pleased to be moving these plans forward.

Houghton Regis and the surrounding area continue to see significant housing growth and the latest admissions information shows that demand for places is increasing.

This proposed new school would not only help meet that demand, it would also create modern facilities for children and families and support the long-term future of education in the area.

We want to continue working closely with schools, local communities, ward councillors and stakeholders as the plans progress.

The report also explains that additional factors affecting demand include children being allocated places in Houghton Regis from neighbouring planning areas and outside Central Bedfordshire.

Housing Matters – May 2026

Tue, 26 May 2026 13:32:00 +0100

Landlord Assurance Board visits Oakley Green

Board members saw how work in Oakley Green is helping to improve shared spaces for residents.

The visit also gave members the chance to hear more about the work we are doing to tackle dog fouling and encourage everyone to help keep shared areas clean and pleasant for all residents.

Our Landlord Assurance Board is made up of tenants, councillors and senior housing staff who work together to help improve our housing services. Board members review performance, ask questions and help make sure residents’ views are heard when decisions are made.

Visits like this help board members see our services in action and better understand the work taking place in neighbourhoods across Central Bedfordshire.

Watch the video above to find out more about the visit to Oakley Green.

What did the members of the Landlord Assurance Board think of the visit?

I've found it really ueful to be out and about learning more about the improvements the Council have made, and having that behind the scenes knowledge. It's been great to see the passion that the team has and how they're pushing for changes that will make a difference long term.

People don't believe that the Council improves the areas where they live, and from today I can see that they do... now I can tell people about these changes that have been made and the work that's been done, even though it might be a slow process. Meeting the team will help build a rapport and help us make change.

Find out more about the Landlord Assurance Board.

Enjoy summer safely in shared spaces

Please help keep communal areas safe this summer

As summer approaches, we know many children and families will be spending more time outdoors making the most of the warmer weather. However, it's really important that anything that is used during the day is cleared and safely put away at night.

Items left in communal indoor or outdoor areas may be removed. This includes paddling pools, swings, playhouses and trampolines, although this is not a full list.

Leaving play equipment or paddling pools in shared areas can create a safety risk for other residents, especially young children. Putting items away after use helps keep communal spaces safe for everyone.

Summer is also a great time for outdoor meals and barbecues. We are happy for residents to enjoy BBQs responsibly, but all items used for cooking or dining outside, including BBQs, tables and chairs, must be cleared away afterwards.

If you are using a disposable BBQ, please place it on bricks or paving slabs and never directly on grass, decking or outdoor furniture. Keep it well away from fences, sheds and anything that could catch fire.

Disposable BBQs can stay hot for a long time and may damage grass or surfaces underneath them. Please never leave a BBQ unattended, and make sure it is fully extinguished once cooking has finished and fully cooled before disposing of it safely.

Thank you for helping us keep our communities safe, tidy and enjoyable for everyone this summer.

Join us at our upcoming Community CleanUP Days

Help us keep our neighbourhoods clean, safe and welcoming for everyone

Following the success of our recent CleanUP Days in Spoondell and the Downside estate, our Neighbourhood Operations Team will soon be holding two more community clean-up events in Houghton Regis and Leighton Buzzard.

These events are part of our ongoing work to improve shared spaces around our homes and support you to feel proud of where you live. They also give you the chance to speak with our teams, raise concerns and work together to make a positive difference in their neighbourhoods.

During the events, teams will be carrying out clean-up work across the estates, tackling issues such as fly-tipping, littering and dog fouling, while also sharing advice and support around waste disposal and looking after communal areas.

Upcoming CleanUP Days:

Wednesday 27 May 2026 from 10am to 1pm, Parkside Drive, Houghton Regis, Dunstable, LU5 5RT
Friday 29 May 2026 from 10am to 1pm, Meadow Way, Leighton Buzzard, LU7

If you live nearby, please come along and get involved! Whether it’s taking part in litter picking, speaking with staff or simply finding out more about the work happening in the area, every little bit helps.

By working together, we can help create cleaner, greener and more welcoming neighbourhoods for everyone.

Your voice can make a difference

There are lots of ways to get involved and help shape our housing services and neighbourhoods

Earlier in this issue, we shared how members of our Landlord Assurance Board visited Oakley Green to see first-hand some of the work taking place in the neighbourhood. It’s just one example of how residents can help influence and improve our housing services.

Getting involved is a chance to have your say about the things that matter to you; from repairs and cleaning to neighbourhood improvements and the services we provide every day. The feedback, ideas and experiences shared by tenants and leaseholders help us understand what’s working well and where we can do better.

You do not need special experience or lots of spare time to get involved. Whether you can spare five minutes for a survey or would like to take part in regular meetings and groups, there are different ways to take part depending on what suits you.

You could:

complete surveys and share your views
join one-off workshops or focus groups
help review services and policies
take part in resident panels and meetings
join our Landlord Assurance Board

By getting involved, you can help shape decisions, improve services for residents and make sure tenants’ voices are heard.

We’ll provide support and guidance, and we want involvement to be open to everyone.

Find out more about how to become a more involved tenant.

Update on our Housing One portal

Our new online housing portal is coming soon and will make it easier to manage your tenancy online

We have been sharing plans for Housing One, our new online customer portal designed to make it quicker and easier for you to manage your tenancy and access housing services online.

Unfortunately, we are currently experiencing some delays to the launch while we continue testing final improvements to the system, to make sure everything works smoothly and reliably from day one. The supplier has been working to repair connectivity issues they have encountered. These are impacting the speed of pages refreshing. Following the supplier's repair, further end user testing will be required. The delayed launch is planned for 31 August 2026.

Although we know many residents are keen to start using Housing One, it is important that we take the time to make sure the system works well and provides the best possible experience for tenants from day one.

Once launched, Housing One will give you secure online access to a range of housing services 24 hours a day, seven days a week. This means you will be able to manage important tasks at a time that suits you, without needing to wait for office hours.

Using Housing One, you will be able to:

pay your rent online and keep track of payments
report and track repairs
report tenancy issues, including anti-social behaviour
access your tenancy information in one place

Housing One is a major improvement to our current system, which has been in place for around 10 years and does not offer the same self-service options for tenants. The new portal has been designed with the future in mind, so we can continue improving and adding services over time.

We will continue to keep residents updated ahead of the launch, including details about how to register and start using the portal.

Other opportunities to talk to us!

Upcoming events for our tenants – get involved!

We hope to see you at one of the upcoming sessions and look forward to catching up with you. View a full list of dates and events.

Thursday 28 May from 3pm to 5pm

Housing Information Hub, Ground Floor Library Building, Lake Street, Leighton Buzzard, LU7 1RX

Friday 29 May from 11am to midday

Coffee meeting, Gale Court, Hexton Road, Barton Le Clay, MK45 4LH

Tuesday 2 June from 11am to midday

Chatty Cafe at Tactic, Leighton Buzzard, LU7 1EZ

Tuesday 2 June from 11am to midday

Coffee meeting at All Saints View, Sapphire Place, Houghton Regis, LU6 5LG

Wednesday 10 June from 2pm to 3pm

Coffee meeting at Furness Avenue, Communal Room, Dunstable, LU6 3BN

Tuesday 16 June from 3pm to 5pm

Housing Information Hub, Houghton Regis Library, Bedford Square, Houghton Regis, LU5 5ES

Thursday 24 June from midday to 2pm

Housing Information Hub, Ground Floor Library Building, Lake Street, Leighton Buzzard, LU7 1RX

Share your views with us!

Help us continue to improve our housing service

We want to make sure you can contact us in the way that works best for you, and your views are essential to this process.

Take our short survey and tell us how you prefer to communicate. Whether you're happy with how things are now, or you think we could do better, we want to hear from you. Take part in the survey.

We’re always looking for ways to improve, but we can’t fix what we don’t know about. Your feedback helps us make things better for everyone.

Comments, compliments, complaints and service requests

Having your voice heard and providing your feedback is valuable to us. There are lots of ways that you can have your say about our housing service.

Comments

Often people want to suggest improvements to services. If you make a suggestion, we will record this as a comment.

Compliments

If you tell us about a service that has been good or a member of staff who has been helpful, we will record this as a compliment and share your praise with those involved.

Service requests

Complaints

You can provide any of the above feedback by contacting housing.feedback@centralbedfordshire.gov.uk or you can contact us online.

Bedfordshire Minerals and Waste Plan Review – update May 2026

Fri, 22 May 2026 15:54:00 +0100

Bedford, Central Bedfordshire and Luton councils are currently preparing a new minerals and waste plan timetable that responds to the new regulations and associated guidance.

Each council also needs to agree to commencement of the initial stages. These include a consultation on the scope of the plan and a call for sites. We expect this agreement will be provided by Executive Committee during summer 2026. Once this approval has been made, a timetable will be published and the initial consultation can be conducted.

Olympic and Paralympic sporting stars to officially open new £33.9 million Leighton Leisure and Community Centre

Fri, 22 May 2026 11:31:00 +0100

The state-of-the-art facility, operated by Everyone Active on behalf of Central Bedfordshire Council, represents a £33.9 million investment in health, wellbeing and community facilities for Leighton Buzzard and the surrounding area.

To mark the opening, residents of all ages are invited to enjoy a packed programme of free activities, tours and family entertainment throughout the day. The celebrations will also include appearances from British Olympic athletics legend Colin Jackson CBE and Paralympic swimming champion Maisie Summers-Newton MBE, who will take part in the official opening and join visitors for activities and meet-and-greet opportunities.

The new centre replaces Tiddenfoot Leisure Centre and offers a wide range of modern fitness, leisure and community facilities, including:

an eight-lane, 25-metre swimming pool
a learner pool with movable floor and a dedicated splash pool
a 150-station gym with Technogym equipment
group exercise, cycling and Reformer studios
two squash courts
wellness facilities, including hydromassage beds
three treatment rooms available for hire
community rooms and meeting spaces
a public café
two fully-accessible Changing Places facilities

The centre has been designed to be inclusive, accessible and welcoming for everyone in the community.

Councillor Steven Watkins, our Executive Member for Assets, Business and Housing, said:

We are proud to be opening our fifth new leisure centre, demonstrating our long-term commitment to improving opportunity and quality of life across our communities.

This fantastic new facility is a major investment in residents’ health and wellbeing and will provide modern, accessible spaces for people of all ages to enjoy for many years to come.

We hope residents will come along to the Family Fun Day celebrations, explore the new centre and take advantage of everything this fantastic facility has to offer.

Tiddenfoot Leisure Centre will close at midday on Friday 26 June 2026, ahead of the transition to the new facility. Existing memberships will automatically transfer to Leighton Leisure and Community Centre, with opening times remaining unchanged.

Find out more on Everyone Active's website.

Central Bedfordshire Council Leader backs bid to expand Forest of Marston Vale

Thu, 21 May 2026 17:03:00 +0100

The government recently announced plans to create two new National Forests, backed by a £1 billion investment in tree planting and nature recovery.

In a letter of support, the Leader, Councillor Adam Zerny and Councillor Tracey Wye, Executive Member for Sustainability and Climate Resilience, have responded by championing the Forest of Marston Vale Trust and its potential to play a leading role in delivering the ambitions of the new programme.

The Forest of Marston Vale Trust has spearheaded one of the most remarkable landscape transformations in England. Once a heavily industrialised area scarred by clay extraction, brickmaking and landfill, the area has seen tree coverage rise from just 3% to 17% in 3 decades, delivering significant environmental and social benefits.

Despite being the smallest community forest in England at just 61 square miles between Bedford and Milton Keynes, the Forest of Marston Vale has had an outsized impact. By planting a staggering 2.75 million trees and shrubs, the project has created pockets of accessible woodland on people’s doorsteps. These spaces connect communities with nature, providing green areas to enjoy and safe havens for wildlife. They are also helping to increase local biodiversity and tackle the effects of climate change.

Councillor Adam Zerny said:

The Forest of Marston Vale is a powerful example of how long-term planning and joint-working, and community engagement can transform a landscape and bring about huge benefits for nature and wildlife.

Our letter emphasises the Forest of Marston Vale Trust’s proven expertise in integrating woodland creation with housing growth - a critical challenge in areas like Central Bedfordshire, where significant development is underway.

Councillor Tracey Wye added:

The Forest of Marston Vale Trust is a safe pair of hands when it comes to planting, growing and managing new woodland. The restoration of the former brickwork area around Stewartby to healthy forest is nothing short of remarkable.

And the work is not just about trees and wildlife; the positive impact on people’s lives is immense with greater access to nature and volunteering opportunities.

We strongly support the Forest of Marston Vale Trust’s bid to become a delivery partner for the New National Forest. We encourage the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) to build on this success and replicate the environmental, economic and community benefits already being achieved locally on a much larger scale.

Mystery medieval find and returning artefacts continue to fire kiln interest after Sutton archaeology discovery

Fri, 15 May 2026 14:31:00 +0100

Last year, we revealed that excavations carried out at Sutton Primary School by its archaeology service, Albion Archaeology, between 2024 and 2025 had uncovered a well-preserved pottery kiln, ahead of construction for a new sports pitch.

Initially the find was thought to have dated back to the Tudor period, under the reigns of King Henry VIII and Queen Elizabeth I, but last month it was revealed that experts now believe the kiln dates back as much as 650 years to the late 14th century medieval period.

New insights shared at a community event in Sutton Village Hall this week have highlighted both the scale of the discovery and the intrigue that remains.

Alongside the pottery, a rare and unusual metal object featuring a decorative fleur-de-lys design was also uncovered. While it resembles a pair of tongs, experts believe its form and decoration suggest another purpose, possibly as an architectural fitting. However, its exact use remains unknown, adding an element of mystery to the discovery.

Archaeologists working on the site recovered more than 30,000 pottery fragments – weighing over 600kg – from 180 excavation buckets, making it one of the largest and most significant local digs in recent years. Archaeomagnetic dating of the kiln indicates it may have been in operation as far back as the reign of Edward III in the 14th century.

Those who attended the event heard a talk from archaeologist David Ingham, who project managed the dig, about how the kiln would have operated, its likely scale as a local industry, and how pottery produced on site would have been used across the surrounding area.

In a significant moment for the community, selected pottery fragments from the dig and pieces of the kiln itself were also brought back to Sutton and shared with around 100 people from the village and the surrounding area, helping to reconnect residents with their medieval past.

Leader of Central Bedfordshire Council, Councillor Adam Zerny, who organised and spoke at the event, said:

It was fantastic to see so many residents come together to learn about Sutton’s past and hear more about this remarkable discovery right beneath our feet. It was great to bring some of these artefacts back to the village and show people a really interesting insight into the history of our area.

Many of the key finds are on display at The Higgins Bedford until 4 October as part of the museum exhibition ‘Exploring Bedfordshire’s Kilns: An Industry Revealed’, which also features a detailed model of the Sutton kiln.

Central Bedfordshire Council re-elects Chair and Vice Chair

Fri, 15 May 2026 12:20:00 +0100

Councillor Vicky Malone has also been re-elected as Vice Chair.

Both councillors represent Caddington. Councillor Collins has served as a Central Bedfordshire councillor for 12 years, while Councillor Malone has served for three years following her election in 2023.

As Chair, Councillor Collins will continue to preside over Full Council meetings, represent the Council at civic and ceremonial events, and support local communities and organisations across Central Bedfordshire.

During his previous year as Chair, Councillor Collins nominated Amicus Trust as his chosen charity. The charity supports people experiencing homelessness and those at risk of homelessness. Over the year, £1,238 was raised through donations, helping to support the charity’s work.

Councillor Collins has chosen Autism Bedfordshire as his nominated charity for the year ahead. The charity provides support, information and services for autistic people and their families across Bedfordshire.

Councillor Collins said:

It is a real privilege to be re-elected as Chair of Central Bedfordshire Council and to continue representing the council and our communities over the year ahead.

My sincere thanks go to everyone who supported my chosen charity, Amicus Trust, during the past year. Thanks to their generosity, over £1,200 was raised to support its valuable work.

This year, I will be supporting Autism Bedfordshire as my nominated charity and look forward to help raise awareness of the important difference it makes to local people and families.

Councillor Malone said:

I am pleased to continue as Vice Chair of Central Bedfordshire Council and to support Councillor Collins in his role as Chair.

It is a privilege to represent the council at civic events and to support the important role the Chair plays in bringing people and communities together across Central Bedfordshire.

Find out more about the duties of the Chair.