Brookgate and Network Rail sign agreement on Cambridge station

 

Brookgate has signed an agreement with Network Rail to begin the first phase of its CB1 development in Cambridge.

 

The CB1 masterplan will redevelop about 1.4m sq ft of land around Cambridge station.

 

The company said the development, designed by Rogers Stirk Harbour & Partners, would create a new city quarter in Cambridge.

 

The joint venture between Brookgate and Network Rail will initially focus on land to the south side of Cambridge Station, creating an improved public transport interchange and including the refurbishment of existing station buildings.

 

Phase one of the CB1 masterplan will also create more than 1,000 student bedrooms for Anglia Ruskin University.

 

Income generated from this part of the scheme will enable a further £8.75m of investment to transform the station interchange into a modern public transport hub.

 

Network Rail will invest £4.25m in the station, and the County will invest £4.5m in County highways and bus interchange improvement works.

 

Sven Topel, chief executive of Brookgate, said: “Our joint venture with Network Rail will create the necessary infrastructure to support Cambridge’s continued growth and represents a significant step forward.

 

“Preparatory work has already been completed ahead of construction and we are in advanced talks with prospective commercial occupiers and funding partners for the student accommodation.”

 

David Biggs, property director at Network Rail added: “Combined with planning agreements signed with the City and County Councils in April, this marks the foundation of a strong partnership over the coming years.

 

“It also complements Network Rail’s investment on a new island platform at the station next year, giving Cambridge the capacity for passenger growth in the coming years and new standards in comfort and amenities for passengers and visitors.”

 

nathan.cross@estatesgazette.com

 

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