Waterbeach station 'ready for 2027'
The Greater Cambridge Partnership (GCP), which took over the project in 2022, had originally set a target date of 2025.
The new Waterbeach Railway Station is now expected to be finished by the end of 2027, two years later than first planned. The Greater Cambridge Partnership (GCP), which took over the project in 2022, had originally set a target date of 2025.
With £43.35 million in funding now confirmed, the GCP will start looking for a builder. A spokesperson said, "With funding in place, we can move forward and appoint a construction team."
Planning permission for the station was granted in 2020, and the station will be closer to the Waterbeach New Town, where 11,000 homes are being built. One condition for building these homes was that the new station must be completed before the next phase of 4,500 homes can start.
Originally, the developer was meant to lead the project, but after they couldn’t get the funding, the GCP took over in 2022. The cost was estimated at £37 million, with the GCP set to fund £20 million and the developer covering £17 million. The GCP also agreed to pay the developer’s share upfront, which the developer will need to repay.
Homes England has also promised an extra £23.35 million, including funds to build a haul road for construction. The developers will need to repay this as well.
This week, the GCP’s board approved the next steps. Work on the haul road will begin soon, and preparations for the main station will start.
Waterbeach Station relocation timeline
January 2020 – Planning permission granted for the relocated Waterbeach Railway Station.
January 2021 – 4,500 homes approved as part of Waterbeach New Town, with a condition for a new station.
June 9, 2022 – GCP proposes taking over after developer fails to secure funds.
June 30, 2022 – GCP formally agrees to take on the project and risks.
February 2023 – Legal application made to keep station planning permission active.
January 2024 – GCP reports delays, but keeps 2025 as target.
February 2024 – New target date moved to 2026.
October 2024 – Completion forecast shifts to 2027; concerns over station facilities. Homes England pledges funding.
November 2024 – GCP board approves moving forward with funding now in place.