Call to get local infrastructure and services funded in time for Universal opening

Cllr Michael Headley, Liberal Democrat Finance spokesperson, called on the Mayor to make sure the council gets its own deal with the Government to ensure Bedford Borough has the financial support it needs to ensure the infrastructure and services for local residents are delivered alongside the Universal project. 

Speaking at the Council’s Executive Committee on Wednesday 23rd April, Councillor Headley stated: 
“We obviously are delighted and celebrate the Universal decision and the boost to the local economy that it will bring and what that will mean in benefiting local residents.  

Now that this part of the decision has been taken, it is important to make sure there is enough focus on the important details of ensuring the infrastructure necessary is delivered.  That obviously includes the big issues, such as slip roads off the A421 and the bigger Wixams Station where the investment is necessary and welcome.  

But there are also going to be lots of other pressures on the local area, in terms of services, housing, other roads and just council services in general.  

When there have been other big national projects, such as the Somerset battery factory, long term financial arrangements have been put in place with the council.

When there is such a massive project like this, however much it is welcomed, there are lots of knock on impacts to be managed.  

It is important now that the council doesn’t think the work is done – in fact the work is just beginning to make sure the infrastructure – both physical and service based, is now developed and put in place and adequate funding for this is secured.’