Outline plans for a major redevelopment of Northampton Railway Station have been completed and approved.

The new station, which is estimated to cost in the region of £25 million, would provide an iconic gateway to Northamptonshire, as well as more capacity and better facilities. It is the cornerstone of a wider regeneration scheme known as the 'Station Gateway', which incorporates a series of Brownfield sites along the River Nene in Northampton town centre. The programme has the potential to deliver 70,000 m² of commercial development, creating up to 4,000 new jobs.

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West Northamptonshire Development Corporation is working in partnership with Network Rail to deliver the station redevelopment. They have officially completed the station’s outline design and have received 'prior approval' for the scheme. Full planning permission is not required as the site is covered by Network Rail’s permitted development rights.

Peter Mawson, WND'’s Chief Executive, said: "Northampton is one of the fastest growing parts of the country in terms of new jobs and housing, yet the station is already at capacity during peak hours. As part of a wider regeneration programme, the new station is critical to the continued growth of a major economy in the centre of England."

WNDC is exploring funding options for the delivery of the station and has submitted a bid to the Regional Growth Fund to support the 'Station Gateway' programme. The site is also part of the proposal for a Northampton Waterside Enterprise Zone, one of 29 bids from across the country currently being considered by Government.

(CD)