Demolition crews are scheduled to arrive at Selby railway station by the end of this month, marking the official start of a £32 million regeneration project. The initiative, backed by the Transforming Cities Fund, aims to turn the station into a modern transport hub with a heavy focus on walking, cycling, and sustainable travel.
Contractors Galliford Try Ltd will lead the initial phase of the works. The first visible changes will involve the removal of several local landmarks to make way for the new infrastructure. This project is designed to place the station at the heart of Selby’s future economic growth, acting as a gateway for investment in the wider North Yorkshire region.
Phase one demolition and site clearance
The project begins with the demolition of James William House on Cowie Drive. Once this is completed, crews will move to Station Road to dismantle the former Railway Social Club and the Selby Business Centre. These clearances are necessary to create the footprint required for the expanded facilities and improved access routes.
Over the next 12 months, the site will undergo a significant transformation. Residents and commuters will see the emergence of a new station car park and the development of accessible platform access to the rear of the building. These changes address long-standing concerns regarding station capacity and ease of use for passengers with mobility requirements.
| Project Milestone | Planned Activity |
|---|---|
| Late Month 1 | Demolition of James William House (Cowie Drive) |
| Phase 1 Early | Removal of Railway Social Club and Selby Business Centre |
| 12-Month Horizon | Construction of new station car park |
| Phase 1 Core | Remodelling of the bus station and footpath upgrades |
| Ongoing | Installation of accessible rear-platform access |
New transport infrastructure and car parking
A central component of the £32 million investment is the complete remodelling of the Selby bus station. The goal is to create a seamless transition between rail and bus services, encouraging a shift away from private car use for short-to-medium journeys. This is complemented by extensive improvements to local footpaths and cycleways, creating safer and more direct routes for those arriving at the station on foot or by bike.
North Yorkshire Council has confirmed that the first phase of the scheme will focus on these essential utility upgrades. The provision of a new car park is intended to manage current congestion issues while the improved pedestrian links will better connect the station to the town centre and surrounding residential areas.
Strategic funding and regional partnerships
The funding for this project comes from a coalition of national and regional bodies. The Department for Transport is a primary contributor, alongside North Yorkshire Council, the York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority, and Active Travel England. This multi-agency approach highlights the strategic importance of Selby as a transit point within the North of England.
Executive member for highways and transport, Cllr Malcolm Taylor, noted that the scheme follows months of development and community consultation. He stated that the investment is intended to serve as a catalyst for further private and public investment in the town, enhancing the overall appeal of the area for residents and businesses alike.
Future phases and community updates
While the first 12 months focus on demolition and core infrastructure, the project is part of a wider vision for Selby. The delivery team includes support from the West Yorkshire Combined Authority, Network Rail, and Trans-Pennine Express, ensuring that the local improvements align with broader rail network standards.
North Yorkshire Council has committed to providing regular updates as the project moves through its various stages. Details regarding subsequent phases and potential temporary traffic management measures will be shared with the public as the construction schedule progresses. The work by Galliford Try Ltd is the first step in a multi-year effort to modernize the town’s primary transport link.
Source: North Yorkshire Council
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