Work to improve safety and accessibility for cyclists, pedestrians and wheelchair users in Bedford town centre is moving forward, with a major upgrade planned along Dame Alice Street.
Backed by £263,100 from the Government’s Active Travel Fund, along with additional investment from the Bedford Town Deal, the project will deliver a protected cycle lane, improved crossings at Harpur Street, and upgraded traffic signals at the junction with the High Street. Together, these improvements aim to make Dame Alice Street a safer and more attractive route for cyclists, pedestrians, and wheelchair users.
At present, cyclists travelling towards the High Street from Bromham Road face a particularly difficult journey. They are required to move across a live traffic lane and navigate an unprotected cycle route that runs against the direction of traffic. These conditions have discouraged use of the route, with many cyclists opting to avoid it altogether. The new infrastructure will remove the need to cross traffic lanes and will provide a continuous, protected route that prioritises safety and ease of use.
Samantha Laycock, Chair of the Bedford Town Deal Board, said: “This investment demonstrates how the Bedford Town Deal is helping to deliver real improvements for our communities. Safer, more accessible walking and cycling routes support health and wellbeing and also strengthen connections to our town centre, encouraging footfall and supporting local businesses. I’m pleased to see Town Deal funding contributing to this important project.”
The project is expected to lead to a 20% increase in daily walking and cycling trips in the area, supporting the Council’s wider ambition to reduce car dependency for shorter journeys and to create a more vibrant, accessible town centre.
Councillor Andrea Spice, Portfolio Holder for Economic Growth, Planning and Prosperity, added: “These improvements will make Dame Alice Street safer and more accessible for everyone, whether you walk, use a wheelchair, or cycle.
“By improving connections to the town centre, we’re encouraging more people to visit, which supports local shops and businesses. It’s a great example of how investment in inclusive, sustainable travel benefits both our community and our economy.”
This work is part of the ongoing programme of public realm improvements being delivered through the Bedford Town Deal. The Town Deal represents a £22.6 million government investment to revitalise Bedford town centre, delivered in partnership by the Government, Bedford Borough Council, and the Bedford Town Deal Board. The Dame Alice Street scheme is one of several projects designed to improve connectivity, promote sustainable travel, and support the long-term prosperity of the town.
Construction on the project is expected to begin on Monday 28 July.
Information on all current and planned roadworks across Bedford Borough is available on interactive map at: www.bedford.gov.uk/roadworks