Cllr Caroline White

23/06/2026

Welcoming Spaces have opened in Bedford Borough for anyone who needs somewhere to stay out of the heat.

A Red Alert for extreme heat across the Borough has been announced for Wednesday and Thursday this week, with very high temperatures expected.

Welcoming Spaces are community venues where residents can seek shelter from the sun, stay cool, and enjoy some company. They are inclusive and non-judgemental places, where anyone can come to seek relief from the heat.

They are free to attend, although there may be small charges things like refreshments. Each venue provides a different offer which may include things like refreshments and snacks, toys and games, phone charging, baby changing facilities, books and free Wi-Fi.

If you have opened a welcoming space and would like it included on the Bedford Borough Welcoming Spaces Network please contact [email protected].

As part of the Welcoming Spaces offer, our libraries are also providing inclusive and welcoming community spaces with free Wi-Fi and a range of activities.

23/06/2026

Please be aware that new parking restrictions have been applied to the Sainsbury's carpark at the Saxon Centre Kempston. MAXIMUM STAY 2 HOURS.
As one of the local Councillor's that have been liaising with the estates team at Sainsbury's, it is really disappointing to not have been informed of the new restrictions. As local Cllr's we could have provided advanced warning of these changes.

23/06/2026

23/06/2026

There’s another warm week ahead, but please remember that open water isn’t always as safe as it looks, even for strong swimmers. ☀️

Here’s what to watch out for:

Cold water shock - the sudden gasp and panic can make it hard to stay afloat.
Hidden hazards - weeds, rubbish and debris can trap your legs and stop you from swimming.
Strong currents – risk of taking you off track or preventing you from getting to the bank.
Steep, slippery banks - getting out can be harder than getting in.

If you’re taking to the water this week - stay safe and make sure someone knows where you are.

Remember, if you spot someone in trouble in the water – call 999 and ask for the fire service 🚒

23/06/2026

Please note that all branches will be closed this afternoon from 2.30pm-6.30pm for staff training 👩🏾‍⚕️🧑🏼‍💻👨🏻‍⚕️

All branches will re-open tomorrow at the usual time of 8:00am 🏥

If you need medical assistance while the surgery is closed, then please contact NHS 111, or 999 in the case of an emergency ☎️

22/06/2026

With high temperatures set to last for the remainder of this week, all Outpatient appointments will continue as normal.

However, any elderly or vulnerable patients who are concerned about travelling to our hospital sites due to the extreme heat can contact our outpatient call centre to see whether it is clinically appropriate for them to have a video or phone consultation instead of attending the site.

For Bedford Outpatients, please call 01234 355122 between 9am to 11am and 2pm to 4pm, Monday to Friday, and then select the relevant extension:
Urology – 5853
ENT – 2632
Neurology – 5795
Rheumatology – 5380
Cardiology – 2148
Vascular – 2641
Gastro/Hep – 3101/2400
Trauma and Orthopaedics – 2035
Colorectal and General Surgery – 5523
Breast and Respiratory - 5128
Dermatology – 6509, 2503, 2611, 2420
Plastics – 2679

22/06/2026

🌞Transfiguration Church - Kempston will be open from 11.30am- 2.30pm Today & Thursday. Refreshments, company and shelter from the heat.

St Paul's Church, Bedford are offering space to cool down this week, alongside the Harpur Centre.

Harpur Centre is open as an emergency cool space, with free water fountains, toilets, Wi-Fi and power points, plus extra seating so you can sit down, relax and cool off for as long as you need.

Addison Park kempston has ample shaded space to take cover as well.

22/06/2026

Today we celebrate the Windrush generation and the immense contribution they have made to communities across Britain.

Their story is one of courage, resilience and determination, and their legacy continues to shape our country for the better.

22/06/2026

Please be aware that bin collections may start earlier this week.

Due to the predicted high temperatures and the amber heat health alert in place for our area, some of Bedford Borough Councils bin collection crews may be starting rounds from 5.30am this week to give them more time to collect while it's a little cooler.

We usually ask you to have your bins out by 6am on the day of collection, but please make sure your bins are out by 5.30am this week so they are ready for collection.

We appreciate that not everyone uses social media, so please pass this message on to any friends, neighbours or relatives who may need to know.

Thank you for your support and understanding.