The redevelopment of Newbury station is now complete

The multi-million-pound redevelopment of Newbury station is now complete with three business growth units offering new employment opportunities for the town.

The Engine Shed Business Growth Units will help support Newbury’s economic development and form part of a wider transformation of the station which has included new customer facilities, new ticket gates, a multi-storey car park, cycle hubs and improved pedestrian access.

Great Western Railway has worked closely with West Berkshire Council (WBC), Berkshire LEP, Network Rail and Grainger Plc to provide an enhanced customer experience.

Berkshire LEP Chief Executive Alison Webster said: “Berkshire LEP is delighted to see the completion of the Newbury Station redevelopment project. As a strategic partner the LEP has invested £6.7 million of government Local Growth Fund towards the total project costs of £19 million.  

“We know that the improvements already provide an improved passenger experience and will encourage further sustainable access to the station as well as support local businesses and provide employment opportunities through the new business growth units.”

Work to transform the station started in 2018 with the installation of a footbridge with lifts, two new cycle hubs adding 300 cycle spaces, and forecourt works.

Completion of station building work on the north side followed, with seven new ticket gates – five in the ticketing area and two for crowd relief – an open-plan ticket area, enlarged waiting room, café and toilets.

The south side station building has also been enlarged to enable relocation of staff offices, while a new, enlarged canopy with a heritage look has been provided to house seven new ticket gates and a ticket vending machine, giving customers and staff better shielding from adverse weather.

Along with the completion of The Engine Shed Business Growth Units, a new forecourt layout has led to improved pedestrian and bus access.

These major works have been delivered alongside and in conjunction with Newbury’s first build-to-rent development, Weavers Yard, owned and managed by Grainger PLC, the UK’s largest listed residential landlord.

Councillor Billy Drummond Vice Chairman of West Berkshire Council said "The joint investment and vision for the Market Street development demonstrates the confidence we all have in Newbury's vibrant economy. The redevelopment has pleasantly enhanced the area with new amenities, improved access to Newbury town centre and new housing.

“This visionary initiative has played a pivotal role in the Newbury Vision 2026, and we look forward to welcoming more residents, businesses and visitors to Newbury.”

Grainger PLC also delivered a new 160-space multi-storey public car park with electric car charging points; a new access road; and a new pedestrian access to the town centre.

Some minor works, including car park resurfacing and cleaning of forecourt canopies and external station building walls, will now commence to compliment the finalised scheme.