£2.5 million refurbishment confirmed for Bedford Corn Exchange
The major upgrade starting in 2026, will improve toilets, kitchen facilities, sound and lighting equipment, and comfort for visitors across all main areas of the historic building
Bedford Borough Council has confirmed a £2.5 million refurbishment of the Grade II listed Corn Exchange, with work due to begin in early 2026 and complete by March 2027.
The council says the work will include redecoration, new flooring, and improved facilities in the main hall, Howard Room, Harpur Suite and kitchen. The toilets will be modernised and laid out more efficiently, while lighting and sound systems will be upgraded with a new projector, screen and star cloth backdrop. New tables and chairs will be added, and the kitchen will receive completely new equipment to replace the current appliances.
Councillor Sarah Gallagher, Portfolio Holder for Leisure, Culture and Customer Experience, said: “This refurbishment is much more than just maintenance – it’s a forward-thinking investment in Bedford’s cultural heart. By modernising the Corn Exchange, we are not only preserving an important historic venue but also enhancing the experience for local residents, visitors, and businesses.”
The Corn Exchange, which opened in 1874, has not had a major refurbishment in 30 years. It is known for hosting events across music, comedy, theatre, and family entertainment, and has a significant place in Bedford’s wartime history.
During the Second World War, it served as the base of the BBC Symphony Orchestra and hosted American bandleader Glenn Miller’s first British broadcast in July 1944 and his final concert in August that year. Other performers during the war years included Bing Crosby, Marlene Dietrich, and Vera Lynn.
In the decades since, the venue has welcomed The Beatles, The Who, Chas & Dave, Incognito, and the Philharmonia Orchestra, which has been in residence since 1995.
Events will continue to run at the Corn Exchange throughout 2025, with upcoming performances including Chris McCausland, Josh Widdicombe, ABBA Forever, Dinosaur Live, and the Bedfordshire Symphony Orchestra.