Our County
Bedfordshire covers an area of approximately 123,500 hectares and borders with Cambridgeshire, Hertfordshire, Buckinghamshire and Northamptonshire and is only 45 minutes from central London by train. It has a growing population currently estimated around 655,000.
One of England's smallest yet most diverse counties
Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service is driving initiatives that promote growth, engagement, and inclusivity within our vibrant and diverse communities. Over half of the county’s residents live in Luton and Bedford, which are known for their dynamic, often transient populations, alongside smaller market towns and rural parishes. We are committed to building a culture that reflects the diversity of Bedfordshire, ensuring our people are empowered, supported, and fully aligned with our mission to keep Bedfordshire safe.
Bedfordshire combines rural landscapes with market towns like Ampthill, Biggleswade, and Woburn, alongside larger towns such as Bedford, Luton, and Dunstable. Luton, our largest town, faces challenges like high levels of deprivation and high-rise buildings. The county also presents key risks, including London Luton Airport, major motorways (M1, A1), large industrial sites, and busy rail networks. Additional challenges range from rural fire and road safety to high-rise fire risks and community safety. We also manage heritage buildings, environmental sites, and flooding risks from local rivers.
