A new survey of 1000 people – which statisticians say is a robust and accurate sample size – suggests three quarters (75%) of people in Bedford support a new east-west rail service.

When asked about the impact of a new, frequent rail service from Bedford to Cambridge, Cambourne, Milton Keynes and Oxford, people responded positively:

· 80% believe it will improve access to jobs

· 75% say it will boost access to education

· 78% believe it will improve access to essential public services like hospitals

· 83% say it will improve how people can travel around the area

How Bedford would benefit from East West Rail

The local benefits for Bedford include improvements to Bedford Midland station, which will drive regeneration of the area around the station and town centre, and relocating Bedford St Johns station closer to Bedford Hospital which will improve access for patients, visitors and staff.

An increase in services on the Marston Vale Line could help boost the local economy, and EWR would make Bedford just a 35 minute train journey from Cambridge – creating business collaboration, expansion and job opportunities. 

“This new survey is strong testament to the support that Bedford residents have for East West Rail and underpins how the project will bring such game-changing benefits to the local community.” - Beth West, Chief Executive, EWR Co.

You can find out more about the wider benefits of EWR here.

Backed by local businesses

This survey follows a recent rallying call by Bedfordshire Chamber of Commerce who urged Government to accelerate full delivery of East West Rail. The Chamber said EWR is vital to revitalise the town centre as a dynamic hub with better connectivity which will create jobs, boost inward investment and create a more attractive shopping, leisure and hospitality destination.

If you’d like to read the full results of the survey, then these are available here.