Central Bedfordshire Council is currently consulting on the next stage of its Community Governance Review, which looks at parish boundaries, councillor numbers and local representation across the area.
Stotfold Town Council has submitted a formal response to the consultation, raising a number of important points for CBC to consider. These include:
Concerns about the proposal to reduce the number of councillors from 15 to 11, particularly as the town has grown significantly and councillors now support an increasing number of community groups, partnerships and projects.
The need for CBC to reassess Stotfold’s earlier proposal to incorporate Astwick as a dedicated ward of the town, which was discussed locally and supported by Astwick residents in August 2025.
A request for CBC to revisit the proposed boundary realignment along the A507, which would bring Etonbury School and Etonbury Woods into Stotfold, better reflecting how local people use community facilities.
Concerns about the financial impact of a smaller council, including the increased likelihood of contested elections or by-elections, which could cost the Town Council between £5,000 and £15,000 per poll.
We remain committed to working constructively with Central Bedfordshire Council to ensure that any changes support effective local representation, reflect community identity, and protect the long-term sustainability of local governance.
Residents can read the consultation documents and submit their views directly to CBC until 26 January 2026. Community Governance Review 2025 – stage 2 | Central Bedfordshire Council
Have a look at our response below:
2025-12-06 CBC Re CGR 2025 Phase 2.pdf
Published: 05/12/2025 Published by: Stotfold Town Council
Return to News Page.