Talks aim to improve rail station parking at Biggleswade

Following concerns raised by a number of Biggleswade rail users he met with local town councillors Michael North, Mark Foster and Ian Bond, and Central Beds local councillor Steve Watkins, to discuss future plans for the area.

Also under discussion was the town centre, new businesses and planned developments for the future.

On the issue of parking, Mr Burt said: “I know this is an important issue for many people, and the town council must balance the needs of rail users with those of the town centre users.

“They will be considering this issue carefully over coming months to see whether any changes are needed to current parking restrictions.

“In the meantime, I am in contact with Govia Thameslink and Network Rail who both recognise the need to provide more parking at the station.

“Shortly, Govia will be increasing car parking by 40 spaces, and Network Rail are carrying out an assessment of land near the station to see whether this can be utilised for similar purposes in the future”.

Councillors are keen to find long-term solutions for Biggleswade, and Central Bedfordshire Council is currently applying for a Housing Infrastructure Fund grant of £65m, which will include contributions to help transform the railway station to provide a modern interchange with better public transport links and step free access to station platforms.

The grant will also ensure key infrastructure funding is available to support the future housing growth planned for the area.