Latest Rail News

14.10.19

Transport secretary approves Northampton rail depot plans

Transport secretary Grant Shapps has given the green light to plans submitted for the Northampton Gateway Strategic Rail Freight Interchange, a huge rail depot located to the south of Northampton.

Following the approval, the rail depot is set to be constructed on land to the east of the West Coast Main Line, next to the M1 motorway between Milton Malsor and Collingtree.

Despite South Northamptonshire Council’s objections to the construction of the depot, they accepted that the Northampton Gateway site was the most suitable and least detrimental project for the district, vowing to support developers in getting the most out of the scheme for the area.

READ MORE: Planning Inspectorate reject plans for giant rail freight interchange in Northamptonshire

READ MORE: ‘Major milestone’ in Northamptonshire railway upgrade reached

Councillor Phil Bignell, deputy leader of South Northamptonshire Council and the portfolio holder for planning, said: “There are two similar proposals for this area, and while we would rather have had neither, Northampton Gateway had the least impact on the district and delivered the most benefits.

"Roade is in desperate need of a bypass and junction 15 of the M1 requires improvements if it is to keep up with the pace of change.

"We will work closely with developers to minimise disruption to residents and maximise the benefits this development might bring to the wider district.”

Image credit: SOPA Images/SIPA USA/PA Images

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