A new railway station is under construction in Cambridge, strategically designed with the future of East West Rail in mind. Slated to open in 2026, the Cambridge South railway station is set to become a vital hub for the city’s bustling Biomedical Campus and surrounding areas. This development promises to ease travel while facilitating future connections across a broader region.
The Cambridge South station, located on Francis Crick Avenue, will feature four platforms, providing a crucial link for the East West Rail project. This ambitious rail network aims to connect Oxford, Milton Keynes, Bedford, and Cambridge, enhancing regional travel and boosting economic connections. The station is being built to accommodate this expanded service, with the possibility of future connections integrated as the East West Rail route develops.
Why the Delay?
Originally scheduled for completion in 2025, the opening of Cambridge South has been delayed until 2026. This delay is due to the ongoing £194 million Cambridgeshire re-signalling project and necessary changes to the East Coast Main Line timetable. However, the government has invested over £200 million to ensure the station is built with cutting-edge infrastructure and upgraded rail systems, which will benefit travelers for years to come.
The new Cambridge South station will be a two-storey structure, equipped with four platforms, ticket vending machines, lifts, and retail space. It will also prioritize pedestrian and cyclist access, making it an accessible and efficient hub for commuters.
Philip Holbourn, senior project engineer, explained that having four platforms would reduce delays by minimising station stop times and allowing for more efficient train passage through the area. This will be vital as more trains are added to the network in the future.
In addition to the station itself, the surrounding rail infrastructure is also being upgraded. Notably, the speed limit at Shepreth Junction, located south of the station, will be increased from 30mph to 50mph. This change will enable faster train passage through the junction, reducing travel times across the region.
On Track for 2026
Construction on the Cambridge South railway station began in spring 2023 and is progressing as planned. With the investment in infrastructure and the ongoing development of the East West Rail network, Cambridge South is set to become a key part of the region’s transportation landscape. This station will not only serve Cambridge but also connect the city to a growing network of rail services, enhancing accessibility and travel options for all.
