New railway stations could be built as part of the third and final stage of the East-West rail link, with five routes for the new section of track from Bedford revealed. The project aims to connect Oxford and Cambridge by rail, potentially bringing new stations to Bedford, St Neots, Cambourne, Bassingbourn and Tempsford.
Simon Blanchflower, chief executive of East West Railway Company, said the line would make a "huge difference". Trains already operate between Oxford and Bicester after a major upgrade completed in 2016. The second phase, between Bicester and Bedford, is due to start later this year and should be finished by 2023.
The third and final phase from Bedford to Cambridge should be completed by 2027. Mr Blanchflower said they wanted to hear from the public to determine the "right route to take" that would "add the most benefit to the area". A preferred route will be chosen after the consultation ends.
Sandy station could also be relocated as part of the work, which could cost up to £3.4bn. Liberal Democrat councillor Aidan Van de Weyer, deputy leader of South Cambridgeshire District Council, raised questions about how routes would be narrowed down, level crossings, road closures and station locations.
The government announced £110m of funding for the rail link in 2016. North East Bedfordshire Conservative MP Alistair Burt called it "an exciting and ambitious project that will link communities and reduce travel costs and journey times". The consultation runs until 11 March, with public events from 11 February to 2 March.
