Government merges LCR and Network Rail’s property team to develop surplus rail land

Government has set up a new development company Platform4 to development brownfield railway land for housing, with major projects planned in Manchester, Newcastle, Nottingham and Cambridge.

Formed from the merger of London and Continental Railways, the Government-owned property development company for developing former railway land, and Network Rail’s property development team, Platform4 will champion putting stations at the heart of communities, unlocking growth, regeneration and opportunities in surrounding and connected areas.

Previously the two organisations operated independently, each managing different aspects of surplus rail land across the UK. This fragmented approach, says the Government, often led to inefficiencies, duplicated efforts and missed opportunities for strategic development.

Now, Platform4 will provide a unified structure and working together instead of separately, says the Government, should allow Platform4 to deliver at greater pace and scale.

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander confirmed Platform4 is to “kickstart the delivery of up to 40,000 new homes over the coming decade” with a commitment to 15,000 in the next five years, by transforming surplus land into thriving communities.

Bek Seeley, former Lendlease development chief and chair the Euston Housing Delivery Group, is appointed chair.

Transport Secretary, Heidi Alexander, said, “Our railways are more than just connections between places – they create economic opportunity and drive regeneration.

“It’s exciting to picture 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 while reviving communities around rail stations, supporting jobs and driving economic growth.

Four sites already earmarked for development include:

• Newcastle Forth Goods Yard: opportunity for up to 600 new homes and unlocking additional new homes  

• Manchester Mayfield: opportunity for 1,500 new homes  

• Cambridge: a mixed-use development with 425 homes  

• Nottingham: 200 new homes following 348 successfully delivered homes at The Barnum

Profits generated from the property company will be reinvested into Britain’s railways, supporting better services and infrastructure while delivering value for passengers and taxpayers.

Bek Seeley, Chair of Platform4, said, “Platform4 will deliver on key government priorities, creating new homes and jobs and stimulating economic growth. Working alongside our partners and local authorities, we will create sustainable places that bring communities and customers together and leave a positive legacy for future generations.

Helen Gordon, CEO of residential landlord Grainger said, “Platform4’s launch, with its focus on brownfield railway sites, is most welcome. These well-connected locations are ideal for delivering the high-quality, sustainable homes we need. Our partnership with Network Rail, delivering rental homes, highlights how public and private collaboration can accelerate housing delivery, boosting economic growth and vibrant communities.

The British Property Federation added, “The formation of this new development company is a welcome move that releases surplus and under-utilised public assets to generate an investable return, helps to stimulate local regeneration and economic growth, and aids housing delivery. We hope the company will have a transformative impact on local communities across the country.”