BEDFORD is gearing up for a transformational decade with an explosion of inward investment and jobs, according to new research commissioned by Tellon Capital, the owners of the Harpur Centre. The economic research outlines how Bedford is set to enjoy its best decade since its official charter in 1166.
The county town already boasts better qualified residents, more family households and higher retail spend (than the national average), which looks to be bolstered further, with:
- the announcement of the expansion of Luton Airport (with an additional 14 million visitors to the sub-region)
- Planning consent granted for Universal Studios
- Confirmation of more than 20,000 new homes by 2036
As the town’s premier shopping centre, the Harpur Centre already sees more than 5 million people through its doors each year and the investment approaching £10m in recent years has helped to energise the town centre, provide stability and grow footfall in the face of economic uncertainty and a cost-of-living crisis.
James Burchell, on behalf of Tellon Capital, owners of the Harpur Centre said:
“A combination of Universal Studios, East West Rail, the expansion of London Luton Airport alongside thousands of new homes will bring about exponential growth. Our research shows there will be millions of additional visitors to the area and over £600million of increased spending. Bedford is set to leap up the Retail Rankings, and we’re delighted to be at the heart of the regeneration.”
Laura Church, Chief Executive of Bedford Borough Council said:
“Bedford is on an upward trajectory, with new businesses of all stripes keen to come here and invest. Our town’s identity has been shaped over the course of almost a millennium to offer a mix of our famous markets, independent boutiques and high street brands.”
“The arrival of Universal, the expansion of Luton Airport, and the investment and commitment of the Harpur Centre, illustrate how our town, our borough and our county never stand still.”
