Plans by Network Rail Property and Kier Property through its Solum Regeneration partnership to invest £200 million in transforming the Goods Yard area around Bishop’s Stortford station have been approved by East Herts’ Development Management Committee.

The scheme was originally approved in 2018 and work commenced shortly afterwards.

Since 2018 the partnership have delivered:

  • The first phase of over 320 residential apartments
  • 64 Affordable Homes for local families
  • Transport enhancements around the station
  • A new multi-story car park offering 400 spaces

Further landscaping works adjacent to the Millenium Bridge have recently started, which will significantly improve the journey between The Maltings and the station.

Following a change to the Goods Yard site boundary, East Herts endorsed a new masterplan for the entire Goods Yard site in March 2022.

This planning approval will enable Solum to complete the scheme at the Goods Yard, including delivering:

  • A further 423 new homes
  • Better pedestrian and cycle links from the station to the town centre and the river
  • Further improvements around the station forecourt
  • New landscaping and connectivity along the towpath
  • Additional commercial space

David Bridges, Managing Director at Solum said:

“We are grateful to the Council for its long-term engagement and to the local community for their input and support.

“This approval unlocks a scheme that secures real benefits for Bishop’s Stortford — new homes, public realm improvements and renewed investor confidence to deliver more jobs through these works.

“We’re now focused on getting on with the next phase.”

Robin Dobson, Group Property Director for Network Rail Property added:

“The Goods Yard site is a great example of how we can bring underused brownfield land back into use, bringing forward a further 423 homes and wider community benefits.

“Through our Solum partnership, we’re helping to deliver much-need homes and local amenities in central and sustainable locations – while also generating funds to reinvest into the rail network and improve passenger facilities.”

Over 65 local residents submitted letters of support to East Herts Council, each setting out their own, personal reasons why they wanted to see this development approved.