Community News
Everything happening across Shortstown, Cardington, Cople & Cotton End.
Government inspectors have found Bedford Borough Council is failing its Best Value duty, and ministers are minded to appoint commissioners for up to three years. Cllr Leigh Coombs reports on the findings, the proposed intervention, and how residents can have their say by 28 October.
By Leigh
Councillor Leigh Coombs has criticised new government planning rules that remove residents' ability to call in applications for public debate at committee, limiting local democratic accountability.
By Leigh
Bedfordshire's 2026 Autumn Walks Festival featured over 60 walks and events attracting 820 participants, including international visitors, with deliberately fewer walks than previous years ensuring better attendance spread.
By Sandra
Volunteers conducted a riverfly survey on Elstow Brook, finding limited invertebrate populations including shrimp and leeches. They aim to monitor the brook's health regularly as trained river wardens.
By Community Network
Shortstown is getting its very own market! The first Shortstown Local Produce Market opens on Sunday 1 November, 9.30am to 1pm, on the Square at Beauvais Avenue, and stall bookings open at 9am on Saturday 3 October.
By Leigh
Bedfordshire Festival of Autumn Walks returns 5-13 September 2026 with guided walks of varying lengths, including the 40-mile Greensand Ridge trek and bat walks suitable for all abilities.
By Sandra
A new citizen science initiative is monitoring invertebrates in Bedfordshire's local brooks and streams to assess water health through sensitive riverfly populations.
By Community Network
The Nomad Dads bring fathers and children together for monthly meet-ups around Bedford, with a Bring Your Dad to Sports Day planned for 11th July.
By Richard Boyden
Bedford Borough Council has agreed to review bus services to Shortstown and Cotton End after hearing petitions over cuts, though residents face further delay before any restoration.
By Leigh