Have Your Say About Our Fire Service

Bedfordshire is the fastest-growing county in England, and Government funding has not kept pace with rising costs. BFRS works tirelessly to keep communities safe but faces increasing demand and expenses.

The Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Authority (FRA) has received government approval to raise the council tax levy by £5 for the 2026/27 financial year. If approved, this would increase the annual Band D charge for fire and rescue services from £117.72 to £122.72 — just 40p a month.

This funding will directly support vital services, including investment in new fire engines and replacing one of the county’s oldest fire stations. Assistant Chief Officer Gavin Chambers emphasized:

“Every pound raised through council tax plays a critical role in maintaining the high standards of service that Bedfordshire residents rely on. Without extra funding, we risk falling behind on growth and delaying critical upgrades.”

Residents and businesses are encouraged to share their views before Sunday 31 January. This is an important opportunity for the community to help ensure BFRS continues to provide high-quality, life-saving services.

Have your say:https://tinyurl.com/4hav8bfx

• 
  Ready for Leighton Buzzard Pride 2026
  The Town Council’s Leighton Buzzard Pride Celebration is on Friday 5th June 5pm-9pm A full evening of live entertainment, community spirit and celebration right into the town centre. The Dolly Show Tribute will be taking… Read more: Ready for Leighton Buzzard Pride 2026
• 
  Olympic and Paralympic sporting stars to officially open new £33.9m Leighton Leisure and Community Centre
  Central Bedfordshire Council is inviting residents to celebrate the official opening of the brand-new Leighton Leisure and Community Centre with a special Family Fun Day on Saturday, 27 June 2026. The state-of-the-art facility,… Read more: Olympic and Paralympic sporting stars to officially open new £33.9m Leighton Leisure and Community Centre
• 
  Cyber Security Workshop in assocation with Bedfordshire Police
  Discover how cybercriminals target businesses like yours and what you can do about it. A hands-on, practical day designed for SMEs. 11am 2nd July Astral Park, Leighton Buzzard Is your business ready for… Read more: Cyber Security Workshop in assocation with Bedfordshire Police
• 
  Things to do this May Half Term around Leighton Buzzard
  If you are looking for things to do to amuse the family of all ages here is our half-term highlights! Events and Activities for Children at Leighton Buzzard Library Saturday 23 May: Elmer… Read more: Things to do this May Half Term around Leighton Buzzard
• 
  MAY HALF TERM PAINT BY NUMBERS GUINESS WORLD RECORD ATTEMPT AT WHIPSNADE ZOO
  Whipsnade’s Wildest World Record Attempt Make history at Whipsnade Zoo this May half term as ZSL attempts GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS® title for most contributions to a paint-by-numbers Saturday 23 May to Sunday 31… Read more: MAY HALF TERM PAINT BY NUMBERS GUINESS WORLD RECORD ATTEMPT AT WHIPSNADE ZOO