£2.3million plans submitted for rail and bus interchange in Biggleswade

A proposal to invest a total of £2.3m in a new rail and bus interchange next to Biggleswade railway station has been submitted for planning permission today by Central Bedfordshire Council.

The proposal says it will deliver several benefits to the station and surrounding area, including:

• Improved pedestrian access to the station and the interchange

• Improved bus links to and from rail services

• Enhanced public space using high quality materials

• ‘Real-time’ bus and rail arrival/departure information

• Re-configured road layout including an extension to the 20mph speed limit

Other improvements that are also being planned by Network Rail and Govia Thameslink Railways at the station include:

• Accessible ‘Step-free’ access to all platforms

• Improved secure cycle parking

• Accessible toilets with baby change facility

The plans are the result of a collaboration between Central Bedfordshire Council, Network Rail and Govia Thameslink Railway, and are funded jointly through CBC and Homes England’s Housing Infrastructure Fund. They claim the improvements will make it easier for people to switch between different modes of transport and encourage people to use sustainable modes of travel.

Ed Akers, Principal Programme Sponsor for Network Rail, said: “The new transport interchange, along with Network Rail’s Access for All scheme, will improve the experience for passengers using Biggleswade station.

“After working with local stakeholders and accessibility groups, we are now finalising the designs for the accessibility project to install new lifts and ramps. This will deliver step-free access at Biggleswade station by 2022.”

Councillor Kevin Collins, Central Bedfordshire’s Executive Member for Planning and Regeneration said: “Improving transport connections is a vital part of supporting the communities and businesses of Biggleswade and the surrounding areas, as well as providing the infrastructure needed to ensure future growth and prosperity.

“It’s fantastic that we will have a new and improved station area to be proud of. These proposals will significantly improve access to the station for pedestrians, cyclists and people with reduced mobility. Together we can ensure a sustainable and bright future that makes Biggleswade a great place to live and work”.

To view and comment on the planning application (21/01403) visit: https://www.centralbedfordshire.gov.uk/planningapplications