“No decisions have been made”: Have your say on £4.5m Bedford Central Library upgrade

**Bedford Borough Council Launches Public Consultation on Central Library Upgrade**

Bedford, England – Bedford Borough Council has opened a public consultation to gather input on the future development of Bedford Central Library. The consultation, which runs until 12:00 p.m. on 2 November, seeks views on the draft Bedford Borough Library Strategy for 2026‑2031 and on possible upgrades to the central library in the town centre.

The council has identified up to £4.5 million in funding from the Local Regeneration Fund that could be allocated to the library’s development. The consultation aims to determine community priorities for library services, including improvements to accessibility, enhanced facilities for children and families, and more flexible spaces for learning, community activities, and digital inclusion.

Councillor John Wheeler, the portfolio holder for customer experience, said: “Modern libraries are much more than places to borrow books. We want libraries to remain at the heart of our communities – inspiring reading, supporting learning, promoting wellbeing and connecting people with opportunities. We are consulting on both our draft Library Strategy and options for the future development of Bedford Central Library because we want local people to help shape the future direction of the service. No decisions have been made. We want to hear from as many residents, library‑users and stakeholders as possible before any future recommendations are considered.”

Residents, workers, students and other library users are encouraged to submit their views via the online survey, attend drop‑in sessions being held at libraries across the borough, or complete paper copies of the questionnaire available at those locations.

The consultation will inform the council’s final recommendations on the library’s future role and the allocation of the identified regeneration funding.

Article and image source: bedfordtoday.co.uk