Oakley Ward, ENG - Postcode - GL52 5JT

Oakley Ward Geographical Description

Oakley Ward is a local government ward in the Central Bedfordshire district of England, UK. It is located in the north of the district and is bordered by the wards of Clifton and Houghton Conquest to the north, Harrold to the east, Cranfield and Marston Moretaine to the south, and Westoning and Tingrith to the west.

The ward covers an area of approximately 6.38 square miles (16.52 square kilometers) and includes the village of Oakley, which is located approximately 6 miles north of Bedford town center. The River Great Ouse runs along the eastern boundary of the ward.

Oakley Ward is a mix of residential and rural areas, with the village of Oakley being the largest population center. The village has a range of amenities, including shops, pubs, and a primary school. There are also several historic buildings in the area, including St Mary's Church, which dates back to the 13th century.

The surrounding areas consist of farmland, woodland, and open countryside, and there are several footpaths and bridleways for walking and cycling. The nearby Harrold-Odell Country Park offers further opportunities for outdoor recreation, with its lakes, woodland, and nature reserve.

Overall, Oakley Ward is a mix of urban and rural areas, with the village of Oakley providing a hub of activity and amenities for the local community, while the surrounding countryside offers opportunities for outdoor recreation and exploration.

Oakley Ward Economy

Oakley Ward is a primarily rural area, and the local economy is largely based on agriculture and small businesses. Many of the residents in the ward work in agriculture or related industries, such as horticulture, forestry, and landscaping. There are several farms and smallholdings located in and around the ward, which provide employment opportunities for local residents.

The village of Oakley has a range of small businesses, including shops, pubs, and a post office. These businesses provide important services for the local community and offer employment opportunities for residents.

Tourism is also a growing industry in the area, with the nearby Harrold-Odell Country Park and surrounding countryside attracting visitors to the area. The park offers a range of outdoor activities, including walking, cycling, fishing, and boating, and there are several campsites and holiday cottages in the area.

Overall, the economy of Oakley Ward is largely driven by the surrounding rural areas, with agriculture and related industries providing employment opportunities for local residents. The village of Oakley and surrounding small businesses also contribute to the local economy, and the growing tourism industry offers further opportunities for economic growth in the area.