The construction of a new transport interchange at Flitwick train station is set to start in August 2021 after being approved by Central Bedfordshire Council’s Executive.

The new interchange will redevelop the train station, as well as the surrounding area, and feature several improvements, including:

• a fully new station forecourt with pedestrian, cycle and vehicle access
• new passenger drop-off and dedicated taxi areas
• a public transport interchange with three bus stops, passenger waiting areas, including real time departure information
• improvements to Steppingley Road, including vehicle access to both the station and Tesco opposite
• dedicated facilities for Center Parcs Woburn passenger collection and drop-off

Nearly £5m of funding from Central Bedfordshire Council and South East Midlands Local Enterprise Partnership (SEMLEP) is set to be invested into the interchange, which is due to be completed by December 2021.

Councillor Kevin Collins, Executive Member for Planning and Regeneration, said, “Flitwick’s transport interchange is a critical element of the regeneration of Flitwick town centre, and will improve how the station is accessed by pedestrians, vehicles and cycles. The development will also be fully integrated into the operation of the station, providing combined bus and rail live departure information and will change how the station is used, accessed and travelled to by users.”

Hilary Chipping, SEMLEP Chief Executive, said: “We are delighted to be supporting this project which will support sustainable travel as well as regenerate the area for the benefit of the people of Flitwick. This project is receiving £2.2m of the more than £27m SEMLEP secured from government’s Getting Building Fund to support the economic recovery from COVID-19. Projects such as this help deliver key priorities at the heart of the Oxford-Cambridge Arc including connectivity, skills for all, the green recovery and innovation which all generate jobs and support the local economy.”

Separate to the Interchange project, Network Rail is developing proposals for step free access to all platforms at Flitwick rail station. This scheme is due to be delivered by 2024 and will result in a new footbridge and lifts to all platforms. The Council has worked closely with Network Rail and Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR) in securing Access for All (AFA) funding from the Department for Transport and developing a concept design, which is fully aligned with proposals for the Interchange.