22nd May 2012
BEDFORD – YOU CAN SEE THE FUTURE FROM HERE
6th Apr 2010
Bedford Borough Council is open for business, and this was the message that was delivered at the Strategic Sites for Business breakfast meeting, which took place on Wednesday 31st March, in London.
The Mayor introduced the presentation by outlining: “We are not here to launch a new strapline or logo, we are here as a new unitary authority, and to make a promise that we’ll work in everyway we can with those considering investing in Bedford Borough”.
Business leaders and developers listened on as Bedford was outlined to be a connected, cost effective and clever choice to operate business within and a great place to invest.
Philip Simpkins, Chief Executive, at Bedford Borough Council said: “We have a ‘can do’ attitude in our promise of support to those looking at Bedford as a viable option. I was born and bred in this area and I know what it needs. We are a new unitary council, with a directly elected Mayor, both he and I are 110% committed to business growth in Bedford and we are looking forward to a new era.”
Mr Simpkins went on to explain what makes Bedford a great location for business investment: “We are centrally located with major improvements being delivered to support our infrastructure including the £220m dualling of A421, linking the A1 and M1, 14,000+ homes, a £10m+ Bedford train station due to open in 2011 and a western by-pass that is close to being fully funded. What other areas in the South East can boast that level of transformational investment to bring forward opportunities for economic growth? Bedford’s job growth is ahead of target, ahead of national and East of England picture.”
The breakfast meeting revealed that 87% of UK businesses’ said that good road links were a very or fairly important factor when considering business relocation.
Pat Tattan, Managing Director of Fosbern Hangars Ltd said: “Bedford has been like a ‘hare in a trap’, but now it’s able to bolt forward as a result of the key changes in its infrastructure; it’s now a very attractive town with an exciting future.”
Rod Calvert OBE, Chairman, Bedford Business Group, (Chamber of Commerce) said: “Congratulations to Bedford Borough Council – there has been a massive positive change in culture to that of embracing jobs led economic growth with a determination to deliver this by a proactive 'can do' attitude. I have personal evidence of direct support from both the Mayor and Chief Executive demonstrating that Bedford is open as a superior place to do business.”
Bedford has made a commitment, not just to embrace the future, but to reach out, grab hold of it, and shape it. Bedford Borough Council will continue to promote investment and development opportunities through a series of meetings and events and are keen to ensure that the local community, including our local businesses, are fully aware of the opportunities for Bedford that this investment presents.
For further information please contact:
Keiron Fletcher or Justine Halsey, Corporate Communications
Tel: 01234 276277/276276
