Network Rail has retracted the press release that this article was based upon and has issued the following statement:
The article indicated that the contract to build the station had been awarded to VolkerFitzpatrick. This is incorrect. VolkerFitzpatrick was awarded a contract to develop the design for the station last autumn (2019) with an option to deliver the build, however Network Rail has not yet instructed this option.
A spokesperson for Network Rail said: ‘I am very sorry that we have provided an inaccurate statement regarding the main contract award for the construction of Soham station. The main contract to build the station has not yet been awarded but we expect the contract to build the station to be awarded in the coming months.'
‘While the statement we provided was not deliberately intended to mislead, we acknowledge that we made an error and that some readers may have been given the wrong information. We always strive to provide the most accurate information but on this occasion, we got it wrong. We are reviewing our internal checking processes to ensure it doesn't happen again.'
Original article follows:
Proposals for a station in Soham have been confirmed by East Cambridgeshire District Council and gives the go-ahead for a new station to be built.
Working with the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority, Network Rail and its contractor can start the enabling works this autumn.
Reconnecting Soham will be the final part in a long campaign to rebuild the station, which was closed in the 1960s.
The new station at Soham will include:
- A 99-metre platform to accommodate a four-car train, with waiting shelters, lighting and information screens.
- Installation of a stepped footbridge across the railway to connect to an existing public right of way. The bridge will be designed for any future lifts for a potential second platform.
- Construction of a drop off point and a car park to accommodate 50 vehicles
- Cycle parking and ticket vending machines on the station forecourt.
VolkerFitzpatrick has been awarded the contract to build the station, with the main phase planned for 2021.
The expected completion date for the new station is Spring 2022 with Greater Anglia trains starting to call at the new station shortly afterwards.
Ellie Burrows, Network Rail's route director for Anglia said: ‘With the consent now confirmed, this will mark an important new chapter for Soham providing more choice for people to travel and offering better connectivity to regional destinations. I am thrilled that, working in partnership with the Combined Authority and Mayor James Palmer, we can now reconnect Soham to the rail network which will deliver significant benefits for the local community when complete.”
Cambridgeshire & Peterborough Mayor James Palmer said: “One of my priorities since being elected was the delivery of Soham Station. I know first-hand just how long this project had previously sat on the wish-list for local people, who could be forgiven for wondering whether it was ever going to get built. I hope this consent gives people yet more reason to know that this project is a reality and it is happening. I saw no reason why a relatively simple piece of infrastructure couldn't be delivered quickly and I'm delighted the first works will start in a few months.
“Reconnecting Soham by rail will give local people of all ages and backgrounds more opportunities for work, study and leisure. It is also symbolic of the fact that we can, and we should, be ambitious for our rural communities and our market towns. Putting quality public transport back into these parts of Cambridgeshire, which we are working to do, will support business and jobs, enable much-needed new homes, and improve quality of life. Soham Station's example has the potential to unlock even more opportunities for better rail in the county.”
Jamie Burles, Greater Anglia's Managing Director, said: “It's great news that the plans to build Soham station have been approved. The new station will be on the Ipswich to Peterborough line, which is served by our brand-new, high quality bi-mode trains. We look forward to working closely with Network Rail and East Cambridgeshire District Council to reconnect people in Soham with the wider rail network.”
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i realise its an artists impression, but cant help but notice theres no disabled ramp, only steps…
As for one platform… imagine the criticism that would ensue if a 2 platform station was built and then the doubling got binned.
(lighting the touch paper..)
Perhaps a new set of track to be installed on the Kennett-Ely branch line to be upgraded as double track and a new platform to be built on the Ely side at Soham station so that trains can operate and pass each other without delaying services. Or a new passing loop to be built at Soham.
Shame that will only have 1 platform just like at Kenilworth, Warwickshire. But are there plans to add an extra platform with the railway line between Kennett and Ely to be upgraded as double track. And to add capacity to the line including Greater Anglia trains (Ipswich-Peterborough) and freight trains using the line to & from Felixstowe Port.