Support

Representation ID: 6648

Received: 14/09/2021

Respondent: Bedford Borough Councillor

RECENT CHANGES
5.1-5.6:
Footfall has continued to fall remorseless, out of town retailing pressure is undiminished, the Covid pandemic along with the sharp growth in internet retailing and home delivery has seen the closure of the towns three department stores, the loss of significant of multiple retailers through bankruptcy or retrenchment, some independent traders losses and the closure of the towns sole major supermarket pending. We have to recognise that for the foreseeable future Bedford Town Centre cannot and should not compete for big shops/ multiple retailers.
This creates a once in a lifetime opportunity to renew and repurpose the Town Centre to meet the evolving needs and wishes of Borough residents. If we get regeneration right there will be far more residents living in the town centre area, in converted offices and upper floors of empty retail units, as well as new build on old railway land and brownfield sites. While the amount of retail space needed will be less in the short term this planned population growth will ensure the future vitality of what will remain and attractive and unique town centre.
We would support the Council investing in appropriate units as they become available which would provide greater scope to implement the finalised Town Centre Plan.