A Bedford Borough Council consultation document which set out plans to regenerate areas of Bedford town centre has been deemed ‘patronising’ in its approach towards Midland Road.

The 'Bedford Masterplan' was subject to a 3 week public consultation in October. It outlined draft plans and suggestions to undertake development in the town centre, including the provision of new homes, offices and retail units.

Whilst agreeing with the general aims of the document, Cllr David Fletcher has criticised it for devoting just a single paragraph to Midland Road and its failure to consider properly the challenges and opportunities for regeneration in this area. He said:

‘I welcome the Bedford Masterplan and the opportunity it gives us to look at the regeneration of the town and in particular those parts of it that are publically owned.

‘Having said that, as a Castle Ward Councillor, I am disappointed that the document dedicates just one short paragraph to Midland Road which is illustrated by a stock-book artist’s impression of a standard shopping mall. In my view, this ‘one size fits all’ approach is patronising and misleading and does not reflect the demographic and socio-economic nature of this vibrant part of our town.

‘The character of Midland Road will not be enhanced or preserved and the area’s needs will not be met either by cosmetic modifications to the shop fronts or an entirely illogical narrowing of the carriageway as proposed.

‘Let us start by thinking seriously about the nature of our community and its aspirations; only then can we think about how Midland Road will look and breathe in 20 or 50 years’ time.’

The Bedford Masterplan can be seen at this link.