A Christmas Note from the Chair
In 2026 we will mark the 100th anniversary of Stewartby Village, and planning is well under way for a series of spectacular celebrations. As we approach this remarkable milestone, the future of our Village is already unfolding in ways that would have once seemed impossible. The arrival of Europe’s first Universal Studios theme park at Kempston Hardwick, alongside the redevelopment of the Stewartby Brickworks site for 1,000 new homes, is a tremendous amount for any community to absorb—let alone all at once.
I still find myself pinching my arm when meeting with Universal’s senior executives. Many of us remember the bemusement in the Parish Council chamber during their very first presentation, when the Universal logo zoomed dramatically across the screen and “landed” in Kempston Hardwick. What once felt surreal has now become a reality. The Government has backed the investment required for this major project, and the recent consultation period has now closed. We used this opportunity to hear your views at our Extraordinary Meeting, and these were carefully considered in our consultation response. A copy of that response can be found here: https://stewartbykhparishcouncil.gov.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/UNIVERSAL-SDO-RESPONSE.pdf
There was a period of quiet while consultation feedback is reviewed, but works are expected to begin in earnest in early 2026, with final planning approval just been granted a few days ago.
The detailed design brief for the Stewartby Brickworks development is due in the spring, and planning permission for the 1,000 new homes is already in place. We will be working to ensure that the site’s important heritage features are preserved, and that the new homes are in keeping with the character of the existing Village—much as was achieved at Hanson’s Reach. Infrastructure and local services remain critical, and we will be pressing planners to learn from the many shortcomings of Wixams. On this, we will take a strong and clear stance.
Quest Pit also received planning consent last year from Central Bedfordshire Council for the development of film studios. Although the original interested parties have withdrawn, recent reports suggest the project may be returning. While some changes have been made to the application, the reality remains that the site holds planning permission but has no confirmed operator. Given the current economic climate, its future remains uncertain. The site owners are now exploring alternative uses, which would require a fresh planning application. We will continue to watch developments closely, as further redevelopment may well be a step too far.
We are delighted that, thanks to a grant from Veolia, a brand-new interactive play area has been installed on the main Village Green. Designed for a wide range of ages, we hope it will bring much enjoyment to children across the Village.
As Stewartby turns 100 next year, please save the dates:
Saturday 4th July – Summer Celebration at The Dave Law Sports Ground, sponsored by Universal Studios. Further details will follow in the New Year.
Saturday 7th November – Stewartby 100 Years Gala Dinner, with guest speakers and catering by The Kiln. Tickets go on sale January 2026.
Busy times lie ahead. We remain fully committed to representing the best interests of our local community. You are welcome to contact me directly, or contact the Clerk at clerk@stewartbykhparishcouncil.gov.uk
Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy New year
Cllr Lee Melville
Chairman