Mayor Dave launches new Economic Prosperity Plan for Bedford Borough

Mayor Dave Hodgson has outlined the Council's ambitions for economic development in Bedford Borough in the new Economic Prosperity Plan. The plan will focus on three key areas: supporting sustainable business growth, promoting the vitality of our town centres and encouraging education and skills development for all ages.

Mayor Dave said "Our new Economic Prosperity Plan focuses on attracting high-skilled and high-wage jobs to the Borough. We will continue to attract inward investment, provide strong business support and promote skills development. It is also important to ensure we have the right infrastructure in place, in terms of sustainable transport and housing to support our ambitions."

The plan focuses on attracting new business and jobs by building on sectors that are already emerging within the Borough. These are green technologies, medical diagnostics, food and drink manufacturing, high value manufacturing and engineering, and creative industries.

In October, it was announced that the Money and Pensions Service (MaPS) would be relocating to the Borough. This will provide a range of new high-skilled jobs to Bedford Borough residents, as well as more people within the centre of Bedford, using and spending money in local businesses, shops and restaurants.

After successful new developments on Riverside, the new High Street and around the town centre, the Council are now also investing into regenerating and improving Midland Road through the Bedford Town Deal Fund. This money will make the area a more attractive place for businesses to operate and residents to shop, eat and spend time.