This week we have agreed new contracts for dealing with the black and orange bin waste collected from the doorstep which bring major benefits for both local taxpayers and for the environment. The contracts will save a combined £6.9 million over the 5 year contract periods, while delivering a boost to recycling and to the effort to divert more waste away from environmentally harmful landfill.
On of the effects of the the unusual spring and summer weather has been unwelcome, vigorous weed growth in locations across Bedford Borough. The periods of heavy rain during what was our wettest recorded period in history not only caused excessive weed growth but also caused significant disruption to the Council's annual weed killing programme. That's why we're declaring 'War on Weeds' to fight back against this blight in our local neighbourhoods.
With the thrilling, inspiring action from the Olympics now over and the Paralympics to come, it's a good time to reflect on Bedford Borough's considerable contribution to both events, and to consider how we can all help ensure that that word 'legacy' really means something for current and future generations here in Bedford Borough. This was the subject of my column in this week's Times and Citizen newspaper, and if you've not seen it, I have reproduced it below:
It was my very great pleasure to cut the ribbon at the opening of Bedford's brand new Waitrose store yesterday morning. Those who live nearby or who travel past the new store off Goldington Road (on the site of the former Courts building) will know how swiftly the building work has taken place in recent weeks. The new store is great news for Bedford, bringing new choice and competition for local shoppers, not to mention significant investment and new jobs for the local economy. The store employs 140 staff, and is even taking on a small number of apprentices, which is fantastic.
On Tuesday evening I was delighted to welcome local businesses which had taken part in July's Best-Dressed Window competition for stores in and around the High Street area of Bedford Town Centre to the Mayor's Parlour in the Old Town Hall. I presented the prizes to the winners, who were chosen by a public vote. More than 1,200 voted, which was tremendous, and gives just a small illustration of how much people care about their local stores and their town centre. The winners in each category (including a runner-up in the Independent Retailer category due to the impressively large number of entries) were as follows:
Tonight sees another 'Pints in the Parishes,' this time in Turvey, and there's a twist. As explained on the Pints in the Parishes page on this website, the venues for these sessions are determined via rural Parish Councils, to all of whom I wrote out and asked if they would like to nominate a local pub for me to visit for Pints in the Parishes. In the case of Turvey, the Parish Council said they would like me to visit both pubs in the village, so it's an evening of two halves! First, I'll be in Ye Three Fyshes from 7pm, and then I'll move on to The Three Cranes at around 8.30pm. So, if you're in the area please do come along and raise any issues of concern, interest or anything else you want to discuss.
