Shortstown is a residential ward located in the northern part of Bedford, near the town of Cotton End. The area is known for its connection to aviation history, as it was originally developed to house workers from the nearby Cardington airfield, home to the historic airship industry. Many of the homes in Shortstown were built in the early 20th century, giving the area a distinct architectural character.
The ward features a mix of housing, including former RAF quarters and newer developments. Local amenities include a primary school, a community centre, and several green spaces, such as Shortstown Park. The area is well-connected to Bedford town centre via road links and public transport. The presence of the Cardington Sheds, iconic landmarks from the airship era, adds a unique historical element to the area.
On average Shortstown has moderate deprivation and moderate crime levels, with around 73 crimes per 1,000 residents per year. Approximately 16.4% of homes in this area are social housing provided by a local council or housing association. The average income of residents in Shortstown is £54,965 per year. There are 3 schools in Shortstown: 3 primary (0 Outstanding and 2 Good) and 0 secondary (0 Outstanding and 0 Good).
Based on 132 recent sales, the median property price is £360,438 in Shortstown area, with individual transactions ranging from £88,300 up to £730,000.
| Type | Sales | Median |
|---|---|---|
| Detached | 55 | £445,000 |
| Flats | 12 | £175,000 |
| Semi-Detached | 41 | £350,000 |
| Terraced | 24 | £295,000 |
10 years price trend in Shortstown
MK420UE
Central Avenue
MK453AE
Bell Lane
MK420GE
Beauvais Square
MK420GF
Eustace Close
MK420UU
Halifax Road
MK420ZF
Wilstead & Shortstown
All data is sourced from official UK government agencies and public datasets. Last updated: 16/08/2025.