The much anticipated 'Narrow the Gap' conference took place on Thursday 18th November, at the Robinson Executive Centre, Wyboston Lakes. Head teachers from across the borough were invited to consider strategies that are proving effective in narrowing attainment gaps for children eligible for free school meals.
The Infrastructure Planning Commission's consultation on Covanta's plans to build a 600,000 tonne incinerator at Rookery Pit near Stewartby closed on Friday. I made a submission in a personal capacity. I have always been steadfast in my opposition to a project which represents an appalling prospect for Stewartby and for the wider Borough, and I set out my very strong objections to the proposal.
The Government's passion for the idea of the 'Big Society' has caused some confusion over what exactly the term means, but for me if it is to prove successful it will be made real not by theoretical discussion of the concept, but by the willingness of those with power to hand it over to the lowest practical level. I've certainly tried to instill this approach in Bedford Borough Council, and recently we've had an excellent example of the way in which the Council can empower communities. We have handed over the management of the Mile Road Allotments to the Mile Road Allotment and Leisure Gardeners Association, who have the capacity, knowledge and the passion to run their own site. This move saves the Council around £3,000 a year, so it makes sense in every respect.
In a major boost for local public transport, Mayor Dave Hodgson has announced a radical extension to Sunday bus services in Bedford. The new programme of services will replace the current, extremely limited Sunday service with regular buses serving the same routes which operate across the whole Bedford town network over the rest of the week.
Local Campaigners against the giant Covanta Incinerator received a boost for their campaign this week when the Planning Inspector refused to accept that an Incinerator in Derbyshire was needed. This was despite an appeal from the Company wanting to build the Incinerator. The Planning Inspector said that one of the main reasons for turning the application down was, "…emissions from the plant and local residents' concerns about the impact on their health..."
I am delighted that we have been able to announce free parking in Bedford Town Centre to help kick-start the Christmas shopping season. All Council car parks will be free after 3 pm from Monday to Saturday next week, while Queen Street Car Park will be free all day through the week. Together with events such as the Christmas lights switch on and firework display and the expanded Victorian Christmas Fair, the free parking offer will help make Bedford town centre the place to go in the run-up to Christmas.
