Cambridge East Station Proposal Sparks Local Controversy

Plans for a new railway station in Cambridge are advancing, but local residents are voicing concerns about its proposed location. The station, intended to enhance transportation options across the eastern city, is part of a broader initiative by East West Railway Company (EWR Co), which aims to improve connectivity in the region. This development comes as the opening of another station, Cambridge South, has been postponed until June 2026.

EWR Co has secured design funding for the new station, which is planned to be situated near the soon-to-be-decommissioned Cambridge Airport. A spokesperson for the organization emphasized that the station is expected to stimulate economic growth and provide a new link to the wider region via an upgraded Newmarket Line, connecting to Felixstowe and Ipswich. Additionally, EWR Co is planning a new eastern entrance at the existing Cambridge Station, which aims to improve passenger experience and enhance access to local amenities.

David Hughes, CEO of EWR Co, stated, “These updates reflect our commitment to listening to communities and designing a railway that delivers long-term benefits for Cambridge and the wider region.” He highlighted the new station’s strategic location as being closer to the town centre and main roads, which would facilitate local growth while encountering fewer constraints from ancient woodland.

Despite these positive projections, community feedback has been mixed. Some residents argue that the station’s location near Coldham’s Lane, close to a Sainsbury’s supermarket, does not serve the area’s needs effectively. A commenter identified as Dragon32 expressed concern that the station is “too close to the main station” and suggested that walking to the city centre or to Cambridge North would be quicker than taking the train to the main station.

Others, like Nickstibbs, acknowledged the necessity for new stations but recommended alternative sites that could provide greater impact, such as locations near Cherry Hinton or Fulbourn. He proposed a site near David Lloyd’s gym, which already has ample parking, as potentially more advantageous.

In response to these local perspectives, Hughes reaffirmed the company’s intention to enhance connectivity and support sustainable transport. He stated, “From a new eastern entrance at Cambridge Station to a new Cambridge East station, we’re focused on improving connectivity and providing better outcomes for passengers, communities, and the environment.”

Community opinions remain divided. Some residents worry that the new station could lead to confusion and increased congestion, with concerns about too many stations leading to potential traffic jams as passengers navigate between them. Commenters like Borislava Petkova highlighted that the proposed location may not adequately serve the local business parks, potentially resulting in continued reliance on cars for transportation.

As discussions continue, the timeline for the new Cambridge East station is still in flux. Local advocates hope to see plans finalized by 2030, aligning with the anticipated closure of the airport and the subsequent development opportunities that may arise.

The proposal for a new station has ignited a spirited debate among residents, reflecting the complexities of urban development and the challenge of meeting community needs while fostering economic growth. As Cambridge looks to the future, the outcome of this project could significantly shape the region’s transport landscape.