Plans to improve stations take big step forward

Plans to improve railway stations in Whittlesey and Manea have taken a big step forward as detailed work to develop the preferred schemes for both stations gets underway.

Various options to lengthen the platforms at both stations and provide a footbridge between the two platforms in Whittlesey were put forward in an indepth feasibility study.

Network Rail was commissioned to carry out the study by Fenland District Council on behalf of the Hereward Community Rail Partnership, with funding from the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority.

Now, a preferred option for each station has been chosen after Network Rail’s recommendation and public consultation feedback showed clear winners in terms of technical requirements, cost and operational effects on the rail infrastructure.

The chosen schemes will now move onto the next stage of development.

Mayor of Cambridgeshire and Peterborough James Palmer said: “The need for investment in our rail infrastructure is clear, especially in Fenland, where passengers get frustrated with services and capacity that don’t meet the demands of the 21st century.”

The plans for Whittlesea Station would see Platform 1 extended eastward and Platform 2 extended westward. A new pedestrian access ramp would be provided for each platform and a new footbridge provided to allow pedestrian access between platforms.