Mayor Dave announces funding for 2 new schools and 40 new classrooms

Mayor Dave Hodgson has announced the Council will invest millions into the Schools Capital Programme in 2024. This will fund two new primary schools in Wixams and Sharnbrook and around 40 new classrooms through expansions to Wixams Academy, Bedford Academy and schools west of Bedford. The investment will make sure that there is strong education infrastructure across the Borough.

Mayor Dave said "Investing in schools and education is a top priority. It is vital that we have the classrooms in place so that our school children can have the best start to life. Bedford Borough is a popular place for young families to settle down, so it is important that we look ahead and invest in schools to match that demand."

The Schools Capital Programme sets out plans to build two new primary schools in Wixams (approximately 28 classrooms) and Sharnbrook (at least 7 classrooms). There will also be expansions to existing schools, with around 40 new classrooms being built across Wixams Academy, Bedford Academy and schools west of Bedford.

Since Mayor Dave was elected in 2009, there have been 10 new schools built across the Borough. The next school to be built has now been given the planning green light, meaning there will be a brand new 200-place Special Education Needs and Disabilities School in Kempston opened in September 2024.