Mayer Calls for National Station Improvements
Leighton Buzzard MP Alex Mayer has urged for the refurbishment of the railway station's southern footbridge and a broader national initiative to improve station standards. Mayer wrote to the railways minister to advocate for these changes, aiming to encourage more residents to travel by train and foster pride in the local infrastructure.
Mayer described the current appearance of the bridge as "tired looking" and stated that she does not need to be a window cleaner to see its condition. She wants to transform the structure's appearance and has called for a national "Great British Spruce Up." Mayer suggested this initiative could coincide with the creation of Great British Railways (GBR), positioning Leighton Buzzard train station as an early example of such improvements.
The Department for Transport has stated that GBR will maintain a "relentless focus" on "driving up standards." Network Rail noted that future improvements would need to be considered alongside its wider maintenance strategy.
Network Rail Seeks Feedback on Permanent Crossing
While Mayer advocates for aesthetic upgrades, Network Rail is currently focused on establishing a permanent public right of way over the West Coast Main Line at Leighton Buzzard station. The organization is inviting residents and station users to provide feedback on three specific options for this crossing.
A stepped footbridge that previously carried a public right of way was removed by Network Rail in 2019 for safety reasons. This removal left a temporary alternative route over the southern footbridge, which is now under consideration for permanent status.
Network Rail is evaluating three potential solutions for the permanent right of way:
- Making the current temporary route over the southern footbridge permanent.
- Constructing a new ramped footbridge in the location of the old bridge.
- Constructing a new stepped footbridge in that same location.
This effort represents the second application for a diversion following the rejection of a proposal over the station’s northern bridge in April 2025. Carole Bayliss, strategy director for Network Rail’s West Coast South route, stated that community feedback will help understand local needs before submitting a new planning application to Central Bedfordshire Council.
Public Consultation Details
Network Rail representatives will hold an information event at Linslade Community Hall on Wednesday, 24 September, between 4:30pm and 7pm. The organization is accepting feedback online until Wednesday, 1 October 2025.