Roads and pavements - Overview

We are responsible for the improvement, maintenance and development of the public highway network within Bedford Borough.

This excludes the A1, the A421 and the A428 (from the A1 to the Borough boundary) which are trunk roads and the responsibility of Highways England.

Not all roads are public highways. Some are privately owned and may have special conditions attached to their use. 

The Highway Code is guidance for all road users and helps you understand more about road markings, traffic signs and general road safety.

The Council as Local Litter Authority must also keep any highway including trunk roads in the Borough of Bedford, clean and clear of litter and refuse (as far as is practical). However, we are not responsible for any graffiti removal on trunk roads.

We have a policy regarding floral tributes and memorials (PDF) which are placed on the highway. This ensures respectful management of issues while maintaining road safety and appropriate highway maintenance.

If you need any further information please contact our Highways Helpdesk on Highways.Helpdesk@bedford.gov.uk.

If you see an issue on a road or pavement within Bedford Borough you will find instructions on how to report it by selecting the relevant page within our roads and pavements section.