The approval clears the way for construction work to begin on the first phase – dubbed ‘City Link’ – later this autumn, subject to the Government’s forthcoming Comprehensive Spending Review.
City Link will replace the existing Cowgate underpass with a new direct pedestrian and cycle route between the station and the city centre, creating a safer and more welcoming gateway into Peterborough.
The near £48m government funding will be part match funded by Network Rail and Peterborough City Council through its Towns Fund allocation, taking the total pot to around £65m.
This will unlock the first phase of works and pave the way for future commercial and residential development in later stages of the wider Station Quarter plan.
The scheme includes a new western entrance and multi-storey car park, upgraded station buildings on the east side, and improvements to landscaping, public spaces and flood defences.
The project is being led by Peterborough City Council, the Combined Authority, Network Rail and LNER.
Work is expected to start before the end of 2025.