FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The British Regional Transport Association (BRTA) has welcomed confirmation from Network Rail that discussions, draft proposals and technical work relating to Northampton's future rail connectivity are currently underway as part of wider transport planning.
The confirmation came in response to a Freedom of Information request seeking information concerning potential rail links associated with the proposed Universal Studios UK Resort, East West Rail, Northampton Gateway and the former Northampton-Bedford railway corridor.
In its response, Network Rail stated:
"We hold some of the information you're looking for."
The organisation further confirmed that the request relates to:
"a variety of discussions, draft documents, proposals and other scheme information that are ongoing and which have a bearing on a larger piece of work still in progress."
Although the information has not been released at this stage, Network Rail stated that the material is being withheld because it relates to ongoing work and unfinished proposals.
BRTA Response
Richard Pill, Chief Executive of the British Regional Transport Association, said:
"This response confirms that discussions and technical assessments relevant to Northampton's rail future are taking place. While the documents have not yet been disclosed, it is important that Northampton remains fully represented as these discussions progress.
The proposed Universal Studios UK Resort presents a major opportunity for the wider region. Northampton is one of the largest towns in England and should be fully connected to the economic and transport benefits that emerge from future investment.
The BRTA believes there is a strong case for examining all opportunities to improve east-west connectivity, including proposals linked to East West Rail, Northampton Gateway and the reopening of the Northampton-Bedford railway corridor."
Importance for Northampton
Professor Andrew N. Williams said:
"This response demonstrates that discussions are taking place and that some technical work is underway. While the documents themselves have not been disclosed, it is encouraging that these issues remain under active consideration.
Northampton's residents, businesses and institutions will naturally wish to know whether the county's largest town is being fully integrated into planning for one of the most significant single economic developments in modern British history.
Unless there is bold action leading to significant investment in railway infrastructure serving Northampton, there is a real risk that the town could fail to secure its full share of the economic and transport benefits arising from the project.
The Government has recently committed £1.3 billion towards transport infrastructure associated with the Bedford area and the proposed Universal destination resort. To date, Northampton has seen no equivalent commitment despite its size, strategic location and economic importance.
For many years there have been growing concerns that Northampton has been overlooked in discussions about rail investment despite its strategic location, growing population and economic importance.
Northampton should not be an afterthought. It should be an active participant in conversations about the railway network of the future."
The BRTA is calling upon Network Rail, East West Rail, local authorities, Members of Parliament and central government to ensure Northampton's transport needs are fully considered as future rail investment proposals develop.
Improved rail connectivity has the potential to support economic growth, widen access to employment, reduce dependence on road transport and help ensure that Northamptonshire shares fully in the opportunities arising from major regional developments.
ENDS
Notes to Editors
Freedom of Information Reference: FOI202601914.
Request submitted to Network Rail on 28 September 2026.
The request concerned the proposed Universal Studios UK Resort, East West Rail, Northampton Gateway Strategic Rail Freight Interchange and the former Northampton-Bedford railway corridor.
Network Rail confirmed that it holds relevant information but declined disclosure under Regulation 12(4)(d) of the Environmental Information Regulations 2004 because the material relates to ongoing work and unfinished proposals.
The British Regional Transport Association campaigns for improved regional rail connectivity and the reopening of strategically important railway routes.
Media Enquiries
British Regional Transport Association (BRTA)
Email: Richard Pill ceo@brtarail.com and Professor Andrew N. Williams anw@doctors.org.uk 07923 489254
Website: https://brtarail.com/b2n/
Blogspot: https://brtarailvolunteer.
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