Green Light For Two Unitary Councils For Bedfordshire

Councils in Bedfordshire have pledged to work together to set up a new unitary council for the Bedford area, after today’s decision by the Government to give a green light to Bedford Borough Council’s unitary proposal.

The Government’s decision will see a new council for the Bedford Borough area, delivering all the services previously run by Bedford Borough Council and Bedfordshire County Council. There will be another “Central Bedfordshire” unitary council, covering the Mid Beds and South Bedfordshire District Council areas.

In a joint statement today, the four councils said:

“This is good news for the residents of Bedfordshire who, after extensive consultation and debate, are now clear about the way forward for their local council services. We also want to reassure our customers that it will be business as usual for Bedfordshire’s four councils while we work behind the scenes to help get the two new unitary councils up and running as smoothly and quickly as possible.”

Tricia Turner, Leader of Mid Beds District Council, said:

“We have been told that as a result of this decision, the Government will be asking ourselves, South Beds and the County to put forward a unitary solution for the remaining area of Bedfordshire. We are pleased as in effect, this is the Central Bedfordshire proposal. The Government have previously agreed that two-tier local government continuing in the remaining area is not an option so the result means two unitary councils for Bedfordshire, which we believe is the right solution for the people of Bedfordshire.”

“We will ensure we keep people up to date via our website and press releases.”

Ends

Note to editors

1. The Government has now to bring in the necessary legislation, with Royal Assent to the Local Government & Public Involvement in Health Bill expected in late autumn.

2. Elections to the new Unitaries would be held in May 2008. The new councils would take over the business of the four former authorities, when arrangements are in place – but by 1 April 2009 at the latest.

3. Full details of Bedford Borough Council’s proposal are available on the Borough Council’s website at: www.bedford.gov.uk

This press release was issued in July 2007. For the latest details on Central Bedfordshire, including the successful unitary bid please visit www.centralbeds.gov.uk.

For further information contact:

Mark Hustwitt, Communications Manager on 01462 611014 (office), 07967474285 (mobile), or e-mail mark.hustwitt@midbeds.gov.uk

Catherine Ruvolo, Communications Officer on 01462 611006 (office) 07967 474311 (mobile) or e-mail Catherine.ruvolo@midbeds.gov.uk