A former Biggleswade town councillor who hit the news when he blasted a ‘gang of four’ as a waste of money now hopes to replace one of them, as he announced his independent candidacy in the Biggleswade North by-election.

The Comet: Bernard RixBernard Rix (Image: Archant)

Two months ago, Bernard Rix blasted four Conservative members of Central Beds Council for being a waste of money and failing to act in the best interests of the town – resigning from the town council in the process.

Mr Rix had represented the Holme ward on Biggleswade Town Council since 2013, before strongly criticising the ‘gang of four’ during his dramatic parting shot in January.

His stinging condemnation was aimed at Central Beds Council members David Lawrence and Tim Woodward, who are in office for Biggleswade South, and Biggleswade North councillors Jane Lawrence and Maurice Jones – the latter of whom has since stepped down.

Now Mr Rix has announced his intention to put himself forward in the by-election to replace Mr Jones, which takes place on May 4.

Speaking exclusively to the Comet, he said: “I’ll work hard for a better Biggleswade by listening to the residents of the town and campaigning for all of the town.

“I’ll make sure Biggleswade has a better voice on the issues that matter, and will campaign for better controls on development, stopping over-development and protecting Biggleswade’s rich countryside, and better investment in infrastructure – such as improved parking, more provision of local services such as doctors’ surgeries, improved access to Biggleswade railway station, and better provision for the elderly and disabled.”

Mr Rix has already swung into action by strongly opposing plans for more new houses in and around Potton Road.

At a meeting of Central Beds Council’s development management committee on Wednesday, plans for 227 new homes north of Potton Road were approved – much to Mr Rix’s displeasure.

The father of one and former Stratton Upper School governor added: “Despite the very best efforts by Biggleswade campaigners – of which there was a very strong representation of around 50 at the meeting – planning permission was granted. The decision has offered further proof CBC has ignored our voices again.

“I will do my very best to get Biggleswade’s voice properly heard in the council chamber if I get elected as an independent councillor in the Biggleswade North by-election on May 4.”