Parish and town council asked to help fund crossing patrols

Central Beds Council has written to each council asking for funding towards the cost, which is approximately £2,500 per patrol per year.

Private companies have also been asked to pay in return for having their logo printed on a patrol’s uniform.

Nigel Aldis, speaking as a Central Beds councillor, was concerned about the move. He said: “There is no guarantee that if Sandy was to pay something it would go towards the two staff in Sandy.

“I just think it’s the thin edge of the wedge. Sandy Town Council has already taken on the toilets, the tourist information centre, the market and the car park – now lollipop ladies. What’s next?

“Central Beds Council made an unexpected surplus of over £400,000 last year that they paid into reserves. I would have thought they’d propose it for this because the safety of our children is paramount.”

Deputy executive member for sustainable communities services at Central Beds, Councillor Budge Wells, said that the request aims to reduce council funding. The council is already discussing funding with other potential sponsors in the county. Anyone else wanting to assist the community in this way can call Central Bedfordshire Council on 0300 300 6206.

To read the full story see the Biggleswade Chronicle of Friday, August 12.