East West Rail: Demolition, congestion and environment among worries as latest consultation feedback published
The East West Rail Co has published a report on its latest consultation feedback
The potential demolition of homes, damage to wildlife and the environment and disruption to Bedford communities have emerged among the key issues in the latest consultation on East West Rail development.
The route-wide consultation, which ran from April 14 to June 9, 2026, received in excess of 5,300 responses.
The Bedford section of the route is expected to span approximately 3.4 miles (5.4 kilometres), running north from Ampthill Road in Kempston to Clapham Road in Clapham village, next to the River Great Ouse.
Proposals include development around South Bedford and Bedford St Johns station, as well as major works at Bedford Main station and the laying of additional tracks north of Bedford.
Many respondents welcomed the potential for improved connectivity to regional cities and improved public transport access, with some welcoming improvements to the railway station.
However, many also shared concerns regarding the changes, with environmental impact, cost, residential disruption and the town centre cited as major concerns. The loss of homes and potential demolition of homes in Ashburnham Road also raised concern, as did potential long-lasting effects on homes and businesses.
Respondents widely suggested that East West Rail’s plans for development should coordinate with other major infrastructure and development plans, such as the Universal United Kingdom Resort, A428 Black Cat to Caxton Gibbet Improvement Scheme, hospital plans, utilities and local growth, in order to accurately assess cumulative impacts and opportunities.
Issues around disruption to traffic, parking, access and insufficient consideration of alternative arrangements were raised in discussion around development to Bedford station.
Calls for Bedford station to consider and accommodate future passenger demand was a key discussion, with some respondents raising concerns that the proposals could realistically worsen access to Bedford station due to congestion, relocated parking and insufficient nearby drop off and collection points.
Labour MP for Bedford and Kempston, Mohammad Yasin, reflected on the consultation findings. He said: “Many respondents welcomed the potential for better regional transport connections, improved access to jobs and education, support for local businesses and economies and more sustainable travel options.
“Many people, myself included, also raised concerns about the potential impacts on local communities, particularly the demolition of homes, increased traffic and congestion, environmental and wildlife habitat impacts, noise and disturbance and accessibility at stations.”
“One of the updates highlighted in the report relates to proposed parking arrangements at Bedford station. EWR has made adjustments to its plans following feedback. However, I remain concerned about the potential impact of the proposals on traffic and congestion in and around Bedford, particularly given the existing pressures on our road network.”
The Labour MP outlines plans to meet with EWR representatives for an inspection of the area later this month.
“The intention is to spend a few hours looking at the reality of traffic conditions, particularly during commuter peak times, and to discuss the potential implications of their proposals on the surrounding roads and local communities.”