Preliminary works have commenced this week to prepare the first part of the site, known as City Link, for the circa £50 million Station Quarter redevelopment.
The transformative project will create a modern, welcoming gateway to the city, improving connectivity and provide a double-sided railway station for Peterborough.
The initial phase focuses on vegetation clearance, surveys and site preparation on the Queensgate Roundabout, ensuring the area is ready for the main construction works scheduled for next year.
These early steps are essential to keep the project on track, while minimising disruption for residents and businesses during the busy lead up to Christmas period.
The Station Quarter project will deliver:
- A revitalised station environment with improved facilities for passengers
- A renovated station building on the east and a new station entrance building on the west
- Enhanced public spaces which are more attractive and accessible
- A new multi-storey car park
- Better transport links, including improved walking and cycling routes and integration with bus services
- Opportunities for future development plots, the potential to unlock land for up to 700 new homes and create up to 4,000 new jobs
Leader of Peterborough City Council, Councillor Shabina Qayyum, said: “It’s exciting to see a start on site for the Station Quarter project. It’s long been talked about and we’re now seeing changes happening on the ground.
“Whilst the station is only a 10-minute walk away from the city centre, it’s very disconnected and not easy to navigate, with poorly lit pavements and walkways. City Link as it will be known, will transform this area into a much brighter, safer and accessible route for people.”
Councillor Mohammed Farooq, Cabinet Member for Growth and Regeneration, said: “It’s great to see a start such an important project for our city’s growth and regeneration. Whilst some of the work is not visible, I'd like to reassure the public that progress is still being made.
"It’s vital we ensure preparatory works are completed in line with legislation duties. The impact of this project will be for generations.”
Andrew Pakes, Member of Parliament for Peterborough, said: “I’m delighted to see the Station Quarter project moving forward, this is a big moment for Peterborough. Years of teamwork and local ambition have paid off and now we’re laying the groundwork for a modern gateway at the heart of our city.
“This project is a testament to what we can achieve when Peterborough comes together, opening up new opportunities and improving spaces for everyone who lives, works, and visits here. My thanks go to everyone who has worked to make this happen, in particular the Government for agreeing the funding. Now let’s get the job done.”
Paul Bristow, Mayor of Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority, said: "It's time to get Peterborough Station Quarter moving - I'm glad we are seeing action. This project will help rejuvenate our city and play a vital role in Peterborough's regeneration. Peterborough is a fantastic city, full of potential, brilliantly located and ready for growth and opportunity.
"This work will have enormous benefits for Peterborough - making it more attractive for residents and visitors and supporting the growing economy by unlocking jobs and housing and improving connectivity. As the city's MP, I fought to secure this funding, and now as Mayor, I'm determined to see it delivered."
The Station Quarter is a regeneration project being delivered by Peterborough City Council in partnership with Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority, Network Rail and LNER following a successful bid to the Government for circa £50 million in funding towards the project.
It is anticipated work for City Link will commence in the first part of next year.