Redevelopment of Northampton rail station a step closer
A specialist team has been appointed to design the redevelopment of Northampton’s Castle Rail Station, which is set to provide an iconic gateway to the town, along with more capacity and better facilities. Hyder Consulting, in partnership with BDP Architects, has been appointed by Network Rail and West Northamptonshire Development Corporation (WNDC), the body delivering new jobs, homes and investment in the west of Northamptonshire. They are working with key partners, including Northamptonshire Enterprise Limited, and the local authorities to drive the redevelopment forward.
Strategically located at the centre of England, Northampton is part of the UK’s fastest growing sub-region. However, studies show that Northampton Station is already at capacity during peak hours, while the station building and its associated facilities are out-of-date, and a constraint to economic growth.
The planned redevelopment includes a new station building, a multi-storey car park, new footbridge and platform canopies, together with new approach roads and associated junction improvements. Later phases of the scheme will include a commercial development on land surrounding the station.
WNDC has committed £900,000 to move the project forward, including its outline design. Northamptonshire County Council, through Northamptonshire Enterprise Limited the county’s economic development agency, has pledged £350,000.
WNDC Chief Executive, Peter Mawson said: “The redevelopment of Northampton Station will be a catalyst for economic growth in Northampton and its surroundings. It is a complex, long term project, but WNDC is making the necessary investment now to ensure future delivery. The new station will be a much more inspiring gateway to Northampton, while providing a step change in facilities. We are delighted to be working with Network Rail and Hyder and are confident that they will deliver an exciting, 21st century design, that meets the needs of rail passengers and local people alike”.
Paul Southworth, Chair of Northamptonshire Enterprise Limited said: “We’re excited to see these appointments and plans moving Northampton another step closer to a modern, iconic train station for the town and the county, improving already enviable transport infrastructure for residents, businesses and visitors alike. The redevelopment of Northampton Rail Station will also pave the way for further commercial development of a prime location, creating jobs and improving the local economy.”
Hyder’s Managing Director for Rail, Mac Alghita said: “In the current economic climate we will use our rail expertise to deliver an affordable world class scheme through simplicity and innovation. We aim to delight WNDC, Network Rail and the people of Northampton.”
Hyder’s Project Director, Andrew Dugdale said: “Hyder and BDP have immediately got to work, ensuring the project maximises value for money. By challenging the boundaries and thinking laterally we have achieved significant savings while enhancing the gateway appearance. We will be enhancing the entire station experience for passengers and staff with a fully integrated design.”
The development of an outline design will build on previous work undertaken by WNDC and its partners. This includes the station masterplan, which was completed by BDP in October 2009. The design team has reviewed the masterplan and identified opportunities to make better use of available space and enable a more cost effective scheme. This includes repositioning the development so passengers can use the existing station during construction rather than a temporary one. This will help to minimise disruption and construction costs.
In addition, the planned station will increase from 2 storeys to 3, and move to a more prominent position closer to Black Lion Hill. The outline design phase, otherwise known ‘GRIP Stage 4’ in Network Rail’s investment project lifecycle, is due to be complete by the end of 2010.
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Categories: Northampton