Bedford Borough Council is reminding traders, caterers and other commercial services taking part in this year’s Bedford River Festival that commercial food waste collection points will be available on site in Russell Park, helping businesses dispose of waste responsibly and keep the festival running smoothly. Unfortunately, due to high contamination rates seen at similar outdoor events, it is not feasible to offer separate food waste bins for the public at the event.
The food waste collected will be taken to Biogen, where it will be turned into renewable energy and a nutrient-rich fertiliser for use on local farms, in the same way as food waste collected through Bedford Borough’s weekly household food waste service. The Council’s commercial food waste service has been operating successfully in Bedford Borough for over a year, and new enquiries from local businesses are always welcome.
Councillor Nicky Gribble, Portfolio Holder for Environment, said: “We’re pleased to provide food waste collection points for the first time at Bedford River Festival, helping businesses play their part in reducing waste and supporting a more sustainable event. It’s another example of Bedford Borough turning food waste into something useful for the local area, while making it easier for traders and caterers to manage their waste responsibly.”
Visitors are welcome to bring a picnic and enjoy the festival across the site, with a dedicated picnic area in Russell Park near The Kiosk and crazy golf. Everyone is asked to use the bins provided, and if they are full, to use the next available bin. Glass is a particular safety risk if left on the ground, as it can break and cause harm to young children, pets and other visitors. All visitors are asked not to bring glass bottles or jars with them.
Bedford Borough is again calling on volunteers to help with the early morning clean-up on Sunday, 19 July at Russell Park. Volunteers should register their interest by emailing volunteering@bedford.gov.uk and meet at the Russell Park Event Control Marquee, next to the main stage, from 6.30am.
Bedford River Festival is one of the country’s largest community events, featuring river displays and boat parades, live music and entertainment across seven stages, children’s workshops and activities, a wide variety of food and drink, trade and craft stalls, funfair rides and more. The event is free to attend.
Bedford Borough Council would like to thank Gallaghers Developments Ltd and Universal Destination Experience for being this year’s Headline Sponsors, along with all other sponsors and local groups and businesses for helping to make the festival possible. More information can be found at www.bedford.gov.uk/RiverFestival
For information about Bedford Borough commercial waste services, visit www.bedford.gov.uk/CommercialServices