Government finally announces East West Rail route

After two years of delays and poor communication with residents, the government have finally made a decision on the East West Rail route. They have chosen route alignment 1 with an expansion to six tracks north of Bedford Station.

Former Portfolio Holder for Rail, Councillor Michael Headley said "The Conservative government have shown yet again that they don't care about the best outcome for Bedford and local residents. From the outset we have opposed the need for extra tracks north of Bedford and shown clearly that they are not necessary. This is a decision that the government are choosing to make not one they have to. Even Network Rail said last year that they should look again at this.

"We call on the Mayor to continue to oppose these extra tracks, as we have done throughout, and provide the robust data to prove they aren't necessary. The council needs to formally object to the Development Consent Order if these plans aren't changed. We need robust arguments being put forward now not election slogans from the Mayor."

Cllr Michael Headley added "It is also crucial that the line is electrified from day one and the opportunity to remodel Bedford station isn't lost. The new fast line platform is crucial for getting Bedford back onto the intercity map. Rail connectivity for Bedford brings a boost to our local economy, but we must make sure the local impact isn't ignored by a Conservative government with their own agenda."