Thousands of families and first-time buyers are set to benefit from a major new government initiative to transform disused railway land into thriving communities.
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander today announced the launch of Platform4, a new government-owned property company that will deliver up to 40,000 new homes over the next decade.
By unifying the previously separate functions of London and Continental Railways Ltd and Network Rail’s Property Team, Platform4 will unlock brownfield sites across the country, attract private investment, and accelerate regeneration—supporting the government’s Plan for Change and commitment to build 1.5 million homes.
Platform4 will breathe new life into disused goods yards and industrial sites, delivering:
- Up to 40,000 homes over 10 years
- £1 billion in new developments
- £227 million in additional value through streamlined delivery
- £350 million in private sector investment
- Thousands of new jobs and economic opportunities
Heidi Alexander, Secretary of State for Transport, said:
“Our railways are more than just connections between places – they create economic opportunity and drive regeneration.
“It’s exciting to picture the thousands of families who will live in these future homes, the vibrant neighbourhoods springing up and the new businesses that will launch thanks to these developments.
“Platform4 will breathe new life into these spaces, delivering tens of thousands of new homes as part of our Plan for Change promise to build 1.5 million homes, while reviving communities around rail stations, supporting jobs and driving economic growth.”
Initial developments include 1,500 homes at Manchester Mayfield, 600 homes at Newcastle Forth Goods Yard, and 425 homes in Cambridge.
Platform4 will champion transport-led regeneration, placing stations at the centre of new neighbourhoods with homes, green spaces, shops, and hotels. Profits will be reinvested into Britain’s railways, supporting better services and infrastructure.
The company will also partner with other public sector landowners to make sites more attractive to developers and tackle the unique challenges of building on railway land.
Bek Seeley, a seasoned regeneration leader and Chair of the Euston Housing Delivery Group, has been appointed Chair of Platform4. She brings extensive experience from both public and private sectors, including her role leading Lendlease’s European development business.
Image credit: iStock
