Speaking as part of the University of Bedfordshire’s Business School Leadership Futures series, at the Luton campus, Mr Simpkins cited the decision to steer away from a two-tier local government system as the catalyst for progressing a series of major development and investment projects in Bedford over recent years.

“Turning Bedford into a unitary authority in 2009 was the best thing that could have happened for the area,” said Mr Simpkins, a Bedfordshire alumnus who has more than 35 years' experience in local government.

“There was very little in the way of development taking place in the town when both the county and district councils co-existed, as one would say ‘yes’ to a development but the other would refuse planning permission.

“Since Bedford Borough became a unitary state, only one decision has had to be made on such matters. That is why nationwide retailers including B&Q and Waitrose have built new stores in the town, whilst the Bedford Riverside North Development and Bus Station regeneration projects are happening.

“Bedford is one of the few areas in the country that has a unitary council, and I believe this should be the norm.”

Discussing a range of topics with staff and students at the University, including local government structures and his role as Bedford Borough CEO, Mr Simpkins highlighted the importance of gaining professional qualifications as a means towards career progression.

“I remember when I faced the prospect of being without a job if the county council became the sole authority, as I was part of the opposition, so I considered the idea of studying for a management qualification.

“I really wanted to do this but I was 47 at the time, and I felt as though I may be too old to return to studying.

“However, on the radio one morning a friend of the late Dame Anita Roddick, The Body Shop founder, said Dame Anita was successful because she did what she thought was right – rather than taking the common sense approach.

“I decided right away that studying for my Master of Business Administration was the right thing to do, so my advice would be to ‘seize the opportunity and get your relevant qualifications’.

Dr Sonal Minocha, Executive Dean of Bedfordshire’s Business School, commented: "It was a real pleasure to have Phillip Simpkins speaking as part of the Leadership Futures series at our University. It was refreshing to hear the importance Phillip placed on professional practice, which was priceless advice for our students.”