Agenda item

Alex Richards, Transforming Cities Fund Programme Delivery Manager, and Matt Roberts, Economic and Regeneration Project Manager, delivered a presentation outlining the current position of the Selby Station Gateway project. The key points were as follows.

·         An overview of the scheme was provided, explaining that it is a £30m investment aimed at improving sustainable transport, encouraging modal shift, enhancing air quality and stimulating economic activity. The scheme focuses on the train and bus stations, Selby Park and key pedestrian and cycling links, with the intention of creating a more attractive, accessible and integrated gateway into the town.

·         The funding position was outlined, noting that the project is supported through the Department for Transport’s Transforming Cities Fund, administered by the West Yorkshire Combined Authority, and is supplemented by local transport grant from the York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority, along with newly secured Active Travel England funding.

·         The main components of the scheme were summarised, including a new station plaza on the former business park site, pedestrian‑priority improvements on Station Road, enhanced pedestrian and cycling routes through Selby Park, improvements to the bus station, new access to Platform 2 supported by a new car park, and the closure of Denison Road Canal Bridge to vehicles. It was also noted that improvements to the station building remain an ambition, subject to future funding.

·         An explanation of the programme delays was given, highlighting several interrelated issues including expired planning consents requiring renewal, the need for further ecological work due to bat activity, delays in securing planning permission for the contractor’s compound, design alterations required once contractors were on site, and outstanding Network Rail consents that were nearing completion.

·         An update on the revised programme was provided, stating that contractor mobilisation is expected in April and demolition works are planned to begin in May, subject to ecological clearance. It was emphasised that maintaining the critical path is essential to minimise disruption and avoid additional costs once work begins.

·         A high‑level construction phasing plan was presented, including the creation of a new two‑way station access and car park, utility diversions and demolition, new platform access construction, improvements to Station Road and the bus terminus, and final junction upgrades at the A19. The importance of maintaining adequate station parking throughout the works was highlighted.

·         Information on future phases was provided, noting that improvements to the Selby Station building remain under consideration and are dependent on Network Rail securing design funding. It was also confirmed that the Bawtry Road underpass element has been reinstated following the identification of an alternative location and the securing of Active Travel England funding, with the feature having been strongly supported through public consultation.

During the discussion, Members raised the following points.

·         Members expressed frustration at the length of time it had taken for the project to progress, but welcomed the update that works were now expected to begin shortly.

·         In response to a question, officers confirmed that demolition works were due to start in May 2026.

·         A query regarding whether any further wildlife issues might delay the scheme was asked. In response, officers stated that they did not anticipate any additional ecological constraints. Members also commented that delays should not be attributed solely to wildlife.

·         Concerns were raised regarding the condition of the site. Regarding potholes and damage to walls, concerns were raised that these weren’t being repaired due to the scheduled work. Regarding the Railway Club building still being in place, Members felt this could lead to antisocial behaviour and potential safety risks.

·         Members welcomed the news that the Bawtry Road underpass element, previously removed from the scheme, was now able to proceed.

·         Members emphasised the importance of ensuring that any changes to the station frontage and wider gateway area remained in keeping with the character of the town, rather than appearing out of place.

Resolved

a) That the update be noted.