Progress So Far
February 2004: Quinlan Terry, Classical Architect, was commissioned by the Council to draw up initial proposals for the site
May 2004: Initial proposals from Quinlan Terry, received a good level of support at the third town centre exhibition
August 2004: Expressions of Interest invited from potential developers, of which 17 responded positively
June 2005: Four developers submitted detailed development and financial proposals for the redevelopment of the area in response to the Invitation to Tender document sent out in January 2005
January 2006: Three shortlisted developers were invited to present their proposals to the Selection Jury
February 2006: Midlands & City Developments Ltd (MCD) were appointed as the Council’s preferred development partner
May 2006: Archaeological investigative works undertaken
July 2006: A Consultation Exhibition on the final development proposals was held
November 2006: MCD submitted a detailed planning application for this £20 million scheme
May 2007: The planning application was considered by the Planning Committee but was refused
August 2007: Planning application was resubmitted in August 2007 which was approved in October 2007.
Proposed Uses
The scheme of development comprises:
A grand public square
A new pedestrian/cyclist bridge
149 residential units
5 restaurants/cafes
The vision for the site is to create a south facing public square with restaurants and cafes and prestige apartments all within a quality waterside environment to act as a new leisure destination for Bedford. It will provide a unique opportunity to create a new venue in the town as a place to meet for coffee or to dine “alfresco” with restaurants trading onto the new grand square adding to the vibrancy of the area.
