In a groundbreaking development, Bedford Borough Council has plans to buy the iconic Debenhams store and are the preferred bidder signalling a significant step towards revitalising the Bedford High Street and fostering economic growth.
Mayor Tom Wootton said: "The potential purchase of the Debenhams store is a strategic move to rejuvenate our High Street and create a thriving hub for our community. High Streets are the heart and soul of our towns, and this investment reflects our commitment to their revitalisation. We believe that by taking this bold step, we can continue to develop a more exciting town centre offer for residents and visitors alike.
“This is part of our wider vision, which will see us futureproof Bedford Borough for decades to come."
Councillor Andrea Spice, Portfolio Holder for Town Centres and Planning, explained how the move is part of the Council’s Town Centres’ vision which was unveiled in September. This outlines the Mayor’s aspirations for Bedford and Kempston town centres, creating a framework for making them areas where people want to live, work, shop and spend time.
She added: "We all know of the challenges faced by traditional retail spaces. Our vision is to transform the town centres into vibrant hubs that offer shopping, services for the community, and leisure, cultural, business and residential spaces, with distinctive quarters that reflect history, heritage and culture.
"We are eager to collaborate with partners to attract new tenants and create an environment that reflects the dynamic spirit of Bedford. As Tom has already said, Bedford's best days are ahead of us. And we hope this is another step forward.”
If you’d like to discover more about the Town Centres’ vision, including a map with key planned projects, go online to https://councillorsupport.bedford.gov.uk/ieListDocuments.aspx?CId=116&MId=6177