To deliver Connection Stage 3, EWR Co proposes to build a new railway between Bedford and Cambridge. Upgrade and refurbishment of the existing railway infrastructure between Oxford and Bedford is also needed to enable East West Rail passenger services to operate along the whole route between Oxford and Cambridge.
The project includes the following proposed works:
- Construction of a new railway between Bedford and Cambridge, including the construction of new stations at Tempsford and Cambourne.
- Improvements to the existing railway between Oxford and Bedford and the approach into Cambridge.
- Works to upgrade existing stations along the route to ensure they can accommodate increased passenger numbers, including remodelling Bedford station, potential consolidation or upgrade of stations along the Marston Vale Line; relocating Bedford St Johns station, and works at Cambridge station.
- Building new infrastructure and upgrading existing structures, including viaducts, tunnels, bridges, cuttings and embankments.
- Improvements to or closure of level crossings and the provision of suitable replacement crossings.
- Works to enable the full or discontinuous electrification of the railway including the installation of overhead lines, substations and grid connections.
- Work to manage interfaces between the railway and existing highways, public rights of way, watercourses and utilities apparatus.
- Work to reduce the environmental impacts of the proposals, as well as to enhance and improve the environment in line with EWR Co’s commitment to biodiversity net gain.
