18th May 2012
New Road Link The Right Move For Business - A421 Officially Open
1st Dec 2010
Bedford Borough Council has welcomed the opening of the newly duelled A421 linking the M1 west of Bedford with the vibrant market town.
Bedford, with a trading history dating back over 800 years, already hosts some top names when it comes to industry and commerce and who have
recognised the benefits of being in the area. 3M, Unilever, Fujifilm and Autoglass all have significant offices here. Asda, Sainsbury’s and Argos
all operate major distribution sites close to the road while Wells and Young Brewing Company, the UK’s largest private brewing company, have been
based in the town for over 100 years.
In a world where everywhere claims to be central, Bedford’s location actually means something. The new road will provide quick and easy access to both the M1 and A1 with 8 miles of new dual 2 and 3 lane
carriageways, cutting congestion, reducing journey times and improving safety on the route.
With its central location and easy road and rail access, the Bedford area is a no-brainer for companies. Half of the UK population can be reached in less than two hours from sites that cost around half the price of those in North London (according to the government’s Valuation Office Agency).
Dave Hodgson, Mayor of Bedford Borough said:
“The improvements offered by this road are phenomenal. The town is perfectly sited for access to both the A1 and M1 motorways. Now I expect
to see journey times cut and better access to the town and the borough for everyone. The benefits for business in particular will be keenly felt. We’ve
already got some prime locations, we’ve got a high quality and loyal workforce and now we have excellent transport routes to boot.”
Dave King, Sainsbury's Logistics Director says:
"One of our key decisions for basing our new Sainsbury's Tu clothing depot in Bedford was because the improved link road would enable us to
achieve our transport operational and environment performance targets, whilst providing our stores and customers with a delivery service that they now demand. Another important factor was that the improved road would also benefit our colleagues travelling to and from work."
