New parish wards proposed for Houghton Regis to represent ‘growing and changing communities’
New parish wards are being considered for Houghton Regis to make sure people are represented as the area grows into new communities.
Central Bedfordshire Council has proposed creating new Linmere and Thorn parish wards in Houghton Regis.
The changes come after the release of a Community Governance Review, which looks at whether local government arrangements still reflect the communities they serve.
The review assessed how creating distinct wards in places where new homes have been built could give residents a stronger local identity and make sure representation is more closely focused on the places where people live.
When the community was asked about making a Linmere ward, 96 per cent of respondents supported the proposal to create a separate ward for the area.
The creation of the new Thorn ward also reflects the significant scale and pace of development in Houghton Regis.
The changes will take effect from April 1 2027, ahead of the 2027 parish council elections.
Councillor John Baker said: “Central Bedfordshire is growing, and our communities are changing, so local representation must change with them.
“These new wards will help give distinct and growing communities a clearer identity and a stronger local voice, with representation more closely focused on the places where people live and the issues that matter to them.”
He thanked people who shared their views: “The feedback we received has helped shape these changes and ensure our local governance arrangements continue to reflect the communities they serve.”
The plans are subject to the agreement of the Local Government Boundary Commission for England.