Bedfordshire News
News
Major Rail Disruption as Storm Damage Closes Key Lines – Network Rail has announced emergency repairs to the Midland Main Line after severe flooding near Flitwick, with disruptions expected until Friday. Meanwhile, Luton Airport reports its busiest ever May, with passenger numbers up 22% year-on-year.
Business News
Vauxhall’s Luton Plant Secures Electric Van Contract – The factory will produce next-generation electric Vivaros, safeguarding 1,200 jobs. Bedford’s Brewpoint Brewery has expanded into European markets, signing a £5 million export deal with Germany.
Economic News
Bedfordshire’s unemployment rate holds steady at 3.6%, with strongest growth in logistics and tech sectors. Average house prices in Central Bedfordshire have risen 7% since 2024, while Luton sees a slowdown with just 2% growth amid oversupply of new builds.
Political News
Council Tax Hike Approved – Central Bedfordshire Council votes through a 4.9% increase to fund adult social care. Controversy continues over the proposed A421-A6 Link Road, with public consultations extended after protests from Ampthill residents.
Election News
Campaigning begins for the Bedford Borough mayoral by-election following the resignation of the incumbent over a expenses scandal. Key issues include town centre regeneration and GP waiting times, with Labour and Conservatives in a tight race.
Employment News
Amazon’s Dunstable Warehouse announces 300 seasonal jobs ahead of Prime Day. Kempston’s STEM Park launches a recruitment drive for 50 tech roles. Bedford Hospital offers £5,000 golden hellos for A&E nurses.
Business News
Shares in Marshall Aerospace (based in Cranfield) jump 8% after MOD contract win. Whitbread (Premier Inn) shares dip 3% as staycation demand softens.
Forecast
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Wed (18 Jun): Sunny, 23°C
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Thu (19 Jun): Thunderstorms, 20°C
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Fri (20 Jun): Showers, 18°C
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Sat (21 Jun): Cloudy, 19°C
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Sun (22 Jun): Sunny intervals, 22°C
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Mon (23 Jun): Light rain, 19°C
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Tue (24 Jun): Partly cloudy, 21°C
Entertainment News
Woburn Abbey’s Summer Concert Series kicks off with Tom Jones headlining. Bedford’s Quarry Theatre stages a radical reboot of Pride and Prejudice set in 1920s Bedfordshire.
Upcoming Events in Bedfordshire (June 29 – July 5, 2025)
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June 20: Leighton Buzzard Canal Festival (Start of weekend celebrations)
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June 21: Biggleswade Food & Drink Festival (Market Square)
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June 22: Dunstable Kite Festival (Downs Park)
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June 24: Luton International Carnival (Wardown Park)
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June 26: Bedford River Festival (Opening night fireworks)
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June 28: Ampthill Classic Car Show (Ampthill Park)
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June 29: Flitwick Music in the Park (King’s Wood)
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July 1: Sandy Summer Fair (Sandford Park)
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July 3: Bletchley Park 1940s Weekend (WWII reenactments)
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July 5: Bedfordshire County Show (Shuttleworth Estate)
Transport Update:
Major delays on M1 J10-13 due to smart motorway upgrades. Marston Vale Line resumes full service after 6-month closure.
Stay informed with the latest from across Bedfordshire!
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