Another Major Bypass Hurdle Overcome as we Work to Get Bedford Moving

The crucial final section of the Bedford Western Bypass received planning permission just a few weeks ago, signalling another major milestone in this much-anticipated project. There are still obstacles to overcome surrounding land-ownership along the long-established route, but we are making progress all the time, with preparatory work actually taking place on site.

I wrote about the progress, and the economic benefits that the bypass and other infrastructure projects will bring to Bedford Borough, in my latest regular column in the Times and Citizen newspaper. If you haven't seen it, I have reproduced it below:

'Another major hurdle has been overcome in the project to deliver the crucial final section of the western bypass for Bedford, with planning permission for the road itself now in place. Preparatory work is taking place on site, and people are increasingly looking forward to the tremendous benefits a completed bypass for Bedford will bring in all sorts of ways.

There is still work to be done before construction actually commences, however, with one of the landowners involved refusing to sell land required for the road. This is in spite of the fact that the route has been established over many years, and the Council's efforts to work with all landowners at every stage. However, we have been preparing Compulsory Purchase Order proceedings in order to avoid any unnecessary delay. This is an absolutely crucial project for current and future residents and businesses in Bedford Borough, and we will do all we can deliver it as soon as possible.

When the road is open, not only can we all look forward to reduced congestion and an improved environment in Bedford, but also a real boost for business in Bedford Borough. Infrastructure is key to attracting the investment in growth and jobs which we need, and the completed bypass will send a powerful message to business that we are getting Bedford moving.

New and improved infrastructure such as the Western Bypass is a real advantage for our local economy, but we must act on it and promote Bedford Borough as 'open for business,' taking the right decisions to help Bedford's economy to grow. In addition to the progress on the Western Bypass, we are working to capitalise on the dualling of the A421 from Bedford to the M1 as businesses recognise the value of our fast links to both the A1 and M1. Another infrastructure boost has arrived recently with the Government's commitment to the Bedford to Oxford section of the East-West Railway. As this breakthrough project proceeds we will be right there making the case for Bedford as the ideal location for firms to invest, to grow and to achieve lasting success, creating the jobs and prosperity we all want to see.'