Bedford Borough Council is pleased to announce the formation of a new Town Centre Advisory Board, with recruitment now open for passionate business representatives across Bedford’s town centre.
The Board will play an essential role in shaping Bedford’s town centre strategy, fostering economic growth, and ensuring that business interests are well-represented as Bedford undergoes an exciting phase of redevelopment.
The new Bedford Town Centre Advisory Board will comprise local business leaders and representatives from a diverse range of sectors. The Board’s priorities will include offering strategic advice to the Council, and working closely with stakeholders to ensure that local businesses thrive as Bedford transforms into a place that residents are proud to live in and visitors are eager to explore.
This recruitment campaign follows several key regeneration initiatives underway in Bedford, including the redevelopment of Mayes Yard, Towns Fund projects on Midland Road and St Pauls Square. There have also been smaller enhancements such as cleaning and clearing rubbish.
Councillor Andrea Spice, Portfolio Holder for Economic Growth, Planning, and Prosperity, shared her enthusiasm for the project, stating: “Bedford’s town centre is on the cusp of a remarkable transformation, and it’s vital that our business community is at the heart of this change.
The new Town Centre Advisory Board will ensure that local businesses have a direct voice in shaping our town’s future, helping to create a vibrant, welcoming place that supports local enterprise and attracts visitors from far and wide. I encourage business leaders from all sectors to apply and help us realise our vision for a prosperous and dynamic Bedford town centre.”
The Board will include representatives from Bedford College, the Police and the Bedford Borough Council, alongside local business leaders. The Board will have up to 12 members, who will serve three-year terms, with the possibility of a second term. Board members will be expected to attend at least six meetings annually and participate in subgroups or strategic workstreams as needed.
Applications are open to business owners or managers within the Bedford town centre area or individuals who have strong links to the town centre. Interested candidates are invited to submit a CV and a one-page statement outlining their interest and experience by Friday 13 June. Interviews are scheduled to commence the week of 30 June with the first meeting to be held week commencing 21 July.
For more information, including details on how to apply, please visit the Bedford Borough Council website or contact the Economic Growth & Development team, at town.centre@bedford.gov.uk