Borough News August 2024

Borough News

Welcome to this weeks Borough News featuring free activities in Harpur Square, fun for young people with The BASE, the Greyfriars development, and a new group championing regional economic development.


Get active in Bedford as new free event launches in Harpur Square

Harpur Square Yoga Event Bedford Borough Council is launching August Activity Days, a free event designed to promote an active and healthy lifestyle for residents of all ages.

Taking place on Wednesday 21 and Thursday 22 August from 10am-4pm in Harpur Square, Bedford, the event offers anything from street dance to yoga, body combat to pickleball, there’s something to suit all tastes and abilities. The first hour of each day will be dedicated to SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities), offering inclusive activities for all ages.

Councillor Andrea Spice, Portfolio Holder for Economic Growth, Planning and Prosperity, said: “We are delighted to be launching the August Activity Days. This event is a fantastic opportunity for people to discover new activities, improve their fitness, and have fun. We encourage everyone to come along and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.”

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Summer fun for young people with The BASE

Rock climbing and the BASEThe BASE summer club has a whole host of activities taking place through the summer holidays in Bedford and Kempston.

Events will take place Tuesdays from 2.30-6.30pm at the Raleigh Centre in Ampthill Road, Bedford, and Thursdays from 2.30-6.30pm at Kempston Youth Centre in Hillgrounds Road.

All young people in school years 7-11 are welcome. Activities will include sports such as boxing, archery tag, pool and table tennis. For food-lovers there will be bubble tea making, pizza making and baking.

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Bedford Borough Council Announces Major Progress in Greyfriars Redevelopment Partnership with bpha and Homes England

Greyfriars planned development Significant progress has been made on the Greyfriars redevelopment project.

This ambitious initiative aims to transform the area by re-providing existing homes and adding approximately 100-200 new homes, transforming the area to create an attractive and sustainable neighbourhood.

Bedford Borough Council and its partners are excited with the progress; Jeff Astle, bpha Director of Development and Sales, commented “The planned redevelopment proposals will integrate Greyfriars into the town centre and create a sustainable, healthy and attractive community where people choose to live.”

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South Midlands Authorities launched to unite region and drive economic growth

Bedford Town Bedford Borough Council, has joined local leaders from across the South Midlands, to establish the ‘South Midlands Authorities group’ which will champion economic growth in the region.

The new partnership will ensure a more joined up approach so the whole region benefits from economic growth, with stronger opportunities available to unlock funding and attract investment into the region.

Councillor Jim Weir, Deputy Mayor and Portfolio Holder for Environment, said: “I am pleased to have been chosen to be the group Business Champion and looking forward to working with members and officers from all six local authorities as we start our selection process for members to that board. The formation of the South Midlands Authorities marks a significant milestone in our efforts to foster economic growth and prosperity across the region.”

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