Liberal Democrat Positive Proposals To Take Bedford Borough Forward

Action For An Open and Accountable Council

• No secret briefing meetings of Cabinet so that the public can see the debates that take place.
• The introduction of area committees - allowing local decisions to be taken locally.
• Allow increased participation by backbench councillors in cabinet discussions to ensure good decisions are made with all views being heard.
• Safeguard public question time at all Council meetings.

Action for a Safe & Secure Community

• Financially support a cop shop in North Bedford, subject to negotiation with Police on timing and location. Whilst continuing to support the ones in Central and South Bedford.
• Engage the Police in discussions about Policing in the rural areas.
• Give Priority to eliminating Bed & Breakfast accommodation for the Homeless.

Action for a Cleaner Environment

• Ensure increased priority to road repair and maintenance through Section 42.
• Re-instate the Town Centre Park & Ride and explore the feasibility of a bus link from the town centre to the station.
• Ensure that the Town Centre option for a new Bus Station is fully considered before a decision is taken.
• Re-instate free drain cleaning and free bulky waste collection.
• Re-vamp and re-launch the environmental clean up squad and system.
• Review and develop the new recycling system with increased public involvement and discussions.

Liberal Democrats would also like to see a reduction in the Ceremonial Budget to help fund these initiatives.