Following the successful roll-out of the Warm Spaces initiative during the winter, the Conservative run Council has taken steps to ensure Bedford Borough’s residents can now keep cool during the hot summer months.

With summer in full swing and the potential for spells of very hot weather, the Borough Council is supporting partners to develop the Cool Spaces network. These spaces will provide local residents with access to welcoming locations where they can shelter from the sun, stay cool and enjoy some company.

These spaces are free for all visitors, some may make small charges for additional services such as refreshments. Each venue provides a different offer, which can include; refreshments, snacks, toys, games, phone charging, baby changing facilities, books and free Wi-Fi.

A list of venues currently participating in the Cool Spaces network, along with their opening times and what they offer visitors, can be found at www.bedford.gov.uk/coolspaces. To help organisations that are offering a Cool space the Council is providing grants of up to £250 to help with costs associated with running the space, further details can be found on the same website. 

Councillor Martin Towler, Portfolio Holder for Health, Public Health and Wellbeing, commented on the scheme saying,

“Warm Spaces were an important initiative that provided safe and sociable places for local residents during the cold winter months.

These Cool Spaces will once again provide shelter and comfort for residents during periods of extreme temperatures. The spaces also provide opportunities to meet new people and socialise in a safe environment, I would like to thank those organisations that are generously providing a space.”