Local people are being asked to have their say on the plans for Wixams Railway Station as the planning application process gets underway.
Construction is due to start in late 2023, so long as rail industry consent is secured, and it’s hoped it will be open to passengers by the end of 2024.
There are two planning applications.
- A ‘reserved matters’ application (ref. 22/01933/MAR) seeking approval of details reserved for later consideration as part of the previous ‘outline’ approval for the station.
- A new full planning application (ref. 22/01954/MDC3) related to the land required for the construction of the platforms and works to the line, these were not included under the original outline application.
You can see the applications in full at bedford.gov.uk/searchplans and by searching the application numbers 22/01933/MAR and 22/01954/MDC3.
Cllr Headley (Liberal Democrats, Putnoe), Portfolio Holder for Rail, says it’s important people with an interest in the station take part in the planning process, especially those in Wixams.
“All residents of Wixams will live within 2km of the new station,” he said. “For most people this would mean a maximum 25-minute walk or a 10-minute cycle ride.”
“With improved pedestrian walkways, bicycle parking and access, the new station will undoubtedly be pivotal in helping create a more sustainable future that is less reliant on car travel.
“I would encourage people to make sure their voices are heard by formally responding to this planning application.”
The delivery of Wixams station has been a contentious issue with residents promised a local connection to the rail network by 2013.
Cllr Headley, says its good news the planning applications are now ready for public scrutiny.
“A fully accessible railway station at Wixams has long been talked about and, since the Council became involved, things are really starting to happen,” he added.
“The development of Wixams Station will bring new opportunities for residents with better transport links and sustainable travel opportunities.”
Wixams Cllr, Graeme Coombes (Conservative), agreed that it was good to see plans moving forward.
“Yet more good news regarding Wixams Station as the planning applications have been submitted, so we will at long last get to see what our station will look like,” he said.
“I am sure that Wixams residents will scrutinise the plans and make their feelings known and I also hope that for once the Borough Council actually takes note of local opinion, as it has form on frequently ignoring residents’ views.”
For more information and to have your say on the plans visit bedford.gov.uk/searchplans and search using the application numbers 22/01933/MAR and 22/01954/MDC3.
All representations should be returned using the website or via email by midnight, 5 October 2022.
If emailing, please include your postal address and specify Objection, Support or Comment at the top of your correspondence.
