Proposals to transform Peterborough Train Station – known as Station Quarter – have received outline business case approval by government.
A collaboration of private and public sector bodies, including the City Council, Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority, Network Rail and London North Eastern Railway, put together the outline business case which was submitted in December 2023 to government.
The outline business case approval enables a full business case to be developed for submission to government, later in the Autumn. A public consultation, asking people for their views on the plans will be also undertaken.
Subject to full business case feedback and approval, the project looks to capitalise on the connectivity that the station offers, alongside wider regeneration aspirations of the public and private sector, by investing in the train station area which is a key transport gateway. The first phase plans for the station area involve creating a new western entrance and car parking space – to create a double-sided station. The eastern station building will be refurbished to provide a better customer experience and help reduce passenger congestion. A new station square will provide an accessible and attractive route directly into the city centre for pedestrians and cyclists.
Councillor Peter Hiller, Cabinet Member for Housing, Growth and Regeneration, said: “We’re delighted to have received outline business case approval. Lots of hard work has gone into getting to this stage and we’re excited to continue work towards full business case submission. The project will provide a significant transformation for residents, businesses and visitors of Peterborough who access the city via the station.”
Mayor of Cambridgeshire & Peterborough, Dr Nik Johnson, said: "This redevelopment, with public transport at its centre, is hugely important for Peterborough, and for our whole region. It's a tribute to partnership working that it now moves forward to the full business case.
“The station is a key portal for the East of England and making it more welcoming for residents, tourists, and investors is a key priority.”
Rail Minister Huw Merriman, said: “This Government’s Levelling Up Fund is part of our plan to improve transport connections and grow the economy across the country. This initiative marks an important step forward for Peterborough’s plans. I look forward to this exciting project delivering a better rail experience for passengers in Peterborough.”
At the council’s cabinet meeting on Monday 11 March 2024, approval was granted for entering into Grant Funding Agreements with the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority for the Station Quarter and delegated authority to enter into contracts in connection with the project.