The regeneration of Peterborough railway station and surrounding land – known as Station Quarter – has taken a major step forward following Government approval of the Full Business Case.
The approval means that, pending the Government’s forthcoming Comprehensive Spending Review, £47.8 million in funding will be unlocked to begin construction on the first phase of works, ‘City Link’, in late autumn this year.
Backed by the Combined Authority, Peterborough City Council, London North Eastern Railway (LNER), and Network Rail, the Station Quarter project is a cornerstone of plans to improve the city’s transport, drive economic growth and make public spaces more attractive in the city. The Full Business Case for the proposals was submitted in March this year.
The first phase of works, known as the ‘City Link’, will deliver a clearer, safer and more welcoming pedestrian and cyclist route between the station and the city centre, replacing the current underpass at Cowgate with a direct link.
The wider Peterborough Station Quarter project includes a new western entrance to the station, a multi-storey car park on station’s west side, and refurbished station buildings on the eastern side.
There will be new public spaces to meet and spend time, improved street design and planting, and measures to reduce flood risks.
Future phases are planned to unlock land for new homes, jobs, and commercial development, replacing some existing surface-level car parking with high-quality, mixed-use regeneration.
Councillor Nick Thulbourn, Cabinet Member for Growth and Regeneration, said:“The approval of the Station Quarter project is a monumental achievement for Peterborough and I’d like to thank all those involved for their hard work to get to this point. This project will transform the station area into a vibrant gateway, enhancing connectivity and accessibility for residents, business and visitors. I’m looking forward to seeing the positive impact this development will have on our city.”
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander, said: “I’m delighted to have conditionally approved plans to kickstart the transformative regeneration of Station Quarter and look forward to continuing our work with Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority and the City Council on turning their ambitious vision into in a reality.”
“This multi-million-pound scheme would be a catalyst for the wider regeneration of the region, unlocking long-term benefits for residents and businesses, while transforming Peterborough into a more connected, accessible and attractive place to live, work and visit.”
“Local MP Andrew Pakes has been instrumental in getting this project over the line. I’d like to thank him for his leadership and campaigning on this issue.”
