Controversial Winter Wonderland event set to return

Bedford Winter Wonderland paid to repair damage to Bedford Park after the 2023 event

A controversial Christmas event will take place again this year but a council said "no decision" had been made beyond that.

In 2023 organisers of Bedford Winter Wonderland sought planning permission for the event after it had started to be set up in Bedford Park.

Harpur ward Labour councillors Colleen Atkins and Zara Layne have written to Bedford Borough Council asking how it plans to address residents' concerns over disturbance and limited access to the park, and to ensure last year’s planning “farce” is not repeated.

A spokesperson for the council said: “The operator will need to obtain all relevant consents before being allowed to operate [this year].”

Organisers paid to repair the park after it was damaged due to high rainfall.

Ms Lane and Ms Atkins said they have been told the event is due to take place in Bedford Park this year.

In statement to Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS), the councillors said: “As this process was a farce last year, we trust that this time the council will follow proper planning procedure and also ensure all comments submitted are given due consideration.

“Whilst we recognise the Winter Wonderland attraction is enjoyed by those attending, as Harpur ward councillors we are disappointed the council has ignored historical concerns of nearby residents."

They said they have been told there would be a more comprehensive noise management plan and a trackway to reduce damage to the park.

A council spokesperson said: “No decisions have been made regarding this event for future years."

Winter Wonderland was approached for a comment but did not respond.