East West Rail: Station Upgrades & Expansion for UK Rail Professionals

Introduction

East West Rail (EWR) has updated its design proposals following a non-statutory consultation, resulting in over 80 changes to the scheme. These updates, detailed in the “You Said, We Did” report, address public feedback and impact various aspects of the railway line, including stations in Cambridge, the Marston Vale Line, and the Cowley Branch Line.

Cambridge East Station

Plans for a new station at Cambridge East, contingent on third-party funding, have been officially incorporated into the East West Rail project. Situated near Cambridge City Airport, the new station aims to provide rail access to eastern communities, alleviate congestion at Cambridge‘s main station, and support growth. This addition complements existing and planned stations: Cambourne to the west, Cambridge North, Cambridge South, and the central Cambridge station.

Marston Vale Line

The Department for Transport has approved East West Rail‘s recommendation to adopt a “Consolidated Stations Option” for the Marston Vale Line. This involves consolidating nine existing stations into four modern, improved stations. The new stations will offer enhanced accessibility, facilities, and connections to new developments. A new station is planned for Stewartby to serve Universal Studios‘ resort proposals. East West Rail now plans to deliver up to five trains per hour during peak times to accommodate passengers traveling to the theme park, increasing the previous plan of three trains per hour.

Cowley Branch Line and Tempsford Alignment

The design supporting the reopening of the Cowley Branch Line has been confirmed by the Government. This service aims to increase capacity at Oxford station. Alignment 1c, the preferred route between Bedford and Cambridge, will be implemented. To maximize benefits, EWR Co has updated its design to include a southern entrance to the new station, enhancing connections with planned growth areas around Tempsford. The government has requested that EWR Co and Network Rail accelerate delivery, beginning with the East Coast Main Line portion of the new station.

Additional Station Enhancements

East West Rail is proposing a new eastern entrance at Cambridge Station to improve the passenger experience and connections to the Clifton Road area. The new entrance will include passenger facilities, an active travel hub, and links to walking and cycling routes. An eastern entrance to Bletchley station is also proposed, pending third-party funding, to improve connectivity to the bus station and town center.

Conclusion

East West Railway Company‘s proposals reflect a commitment to community input, aiming to deliver long-term benefits for the region. Public engagement will continue with localized events and a consultation in the spring or summer of next year before finalizing the Development Consent Order application.

Company Summary

East West Rail: The company is working to design and construct a new railway line between Oxford, Milton Keynes, Bedford, and Cambridge.

Department for Transport: The government department responsible for the oversight of the project.

Network Rail: An organization that has been asked to accelerate delivery along with East West Rail.