From left, Councillor Henry Vann (portfolio holder for town centres and planning), Tony Calladine (East of England regional director), Eleanor Karklas (manager for economic growth & development at Bedford Borough Council), Bedford mayor Dave Hodgson, and Mohammad Yasin MPFrom left, Councillor Henry Vann (portfolio holder for town centres and planning), Tony Calladine (East of England regional director), Eleanor Karklas (manager for economic growth & development at Bedford Borough Council), Bedford mayor Dave Hodgson, and Mohammad Yasin MP
From left, Councillor Henry Vann (portfolio holder for town centres and planning), Tony Calladine (East of England regional director), Eleanor Karklas (manager for economic growth & development at Bedford Borough Council), Bedford mayor Dave Hodgson, and Mohammad Yasin MP

Bedford MP and mayor see progress on High Street revamp

The work is part of the High Street Heritage Action Zone scheme

Looks like the work to enhance the town as part of the High Street Heritage Action Zone scheme is going well.

And yesterday (Thursday), the mayor Dave Hodgson, Councillor Henry Vann, Mohammad Yasin MP and Tony Calladine, from Historic England, visited the High Street to see the works for themselves.

They saw the enhancements at Blue Monk and Goldings before finishing at the newly improved Sundae's Gelato.

The scheme – a joint initiative between Bedford Borough Council and Historic England – aims to celebrate the area's unique cultural and architectural heritage.

Mr Hodgson said: “The High Street Heritage Action Zone scheme has been a big benefit to Bedford. It has helped in the restoration of historic buildings and helped us share with residents the story of Bedford’s local history and heritage.”

Cllr Vann said: “From the Blue Monk building which looks absolutely fantastic, to these stunning new business premises in Silver Square, the High Street Heritage Action Zone has been a great success. It has been great to see the work continue, and with more in the pipeline at Golding’s and the Salvation Army building and more.”

Property owners on Bedford High Street can still sign-up to take part in the scheme by emailing Eleanor Karklas, manager for economic growth & development, for an informal conversation: Eleanor.Karklas@bedford.gov.uk.