Consultations open in Bedford Borough

Accessible taxis and private hire vehicles

TaxiWe want to better understand the experiences of individuals using accessible taxis and private hire vehicles within Bedford Borough.

As the licensing authority for both drivers and vehicles, we are committed to ensuring the travel needs of those with mobility or sensory impairments are given paramount consideration.

Individuals with personal experiences using local taxis or private hire vehicles, including family members, friends, or caregivers who accompany someone on journeys, are encouraged to participate in this short questionnaire.

The data collected through this research will inform future policies and initiatives to enhance the accessibility and quality of taxi and private hire vehicle services in Bedford Borough.

Start the survey

NHS dental care in Bedford Borough 

Dentist at work

Healthwatch Bedford Borough is asking for your experiences of accessing NHS dental care in Bedford Borough.

They want to understand what the challenges are in accessing NHS dental care and also where there are areas of good practice. They will use the feedback that they collect to put together a report for the Integrated Care Board, Local Dentistry Committee, and Bedford Borough Health & Wellbeing Board.

Take 5 minutes to have your say and help provide feedback for local dentistry.

Start the survey

Trees Supplementary Planning Document

TreeWe are consulting on the draft Trees and Development Supplementary Planning Document.

The purpose of the supplementary planning document is to give guidance on the Council’s development plan policies in relation to trees and landscaping.

These include Policy 38 (Landscaping in new development), Policy 39 (Retention of Trees) and Policy 40 (Hedgerows) in the Local Plan 2030 (PDF).

The draft guidance covers matters such as :

  • tree protection
  • planning application requirements
  • tree aftercare
  • trees in the highway.

The purpose of this consultation is to receive comments on the draft document, following the scoping consultation carried out in late 2022.

View the draft Trees and Development Supplementary Planning Document
How to comment

Domestic Abuse Strategy consultation

Domestic Abuse Strategy consultationThe Domestic Abuse Strategy consultation runs until Friday 5 January. The aim is to capture the experiences of people in Bedford Borough who have experienced domestic abuse.

There are three separate consultations running, one for individuals who have directly experienced domestic abuse, one for family and friends of victims, and a third consultation for individuals who have perpetrated harmful behaviours.

This initiative is a crucial step in shaping and improving the services provided for survivors, while also addressing the diverse needs of those affected by domestic abuse.

If you have experienced domestic abuse of any kind, please complete the survey now.

Start the survey

Free access to computers, Wi-Fi, and digital help

We understand that not everyone is sure of how to do some things digitally. You might like some support and guidance that will help you carry out tasks online.

We want to help you:

  • access computers and Wi-Fi for free
  • do more online – access Council services easily through our online forms
  • stay informed about your local area and find the information you need at any time
  • improve your digital skills and stay safe online.

Below is a range of services that can help.

Digital Help

Citizens’ Panel 

Tablet showing homepage new websiteYou can tell us what you think about local issues by joining our Citizens’ Panel.

As a panel member, you will be asked to take part in at least two surveys a year. Your responses can make a big difference to key decisions that are taken by the Council.

The Citizens’ Panel was established in 1999 and is used to gather public ideas and opinions on a range of topics that relate to Bedford Borough Council and the services we provide.

Join the Citizens’ Panel