Government Launches Platform4 to Manage Surplus Rail Land 

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• Government Launches Platform4 to Manage Surplus Rail Land 

01 August 2025

Platform4, a collaboration of Network Rail’s Property Team and London and Continental Railways, is set to accelerate house building on disused railway land.

The government states that this will kickstart £1 billion of development, including 40,000 new homes over a decade and over 15,000 in the next five years.

London and Continental Railways Ltd, the Department of Transport property development company, and rail operator Network Rail, had managed different elements of surplus rail land independently. Now, through Platform 4, the companies will work collaboratively, with the government expecting to generate an additional £227 million through the merger.

Sites in Nottingham, Newcastle, Manchester and Cambridge have already been earmarked for new developments.

Platform4 will be chaired by Bek Seeley, who has held a range of operational and commercial roles in economic development, infrastructure, built environment and public services. She previously led Lendlease’s development business in Europe.

Bek 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.”

Picture: a CGI showing part of the Mayfield Regeneration site in Manchester, one of the areas that has been earmarked for new residential developments. The CGI shows community green space with walkways and sculptures, with large tower blocks in the background. Image Credit: Mayfield Regeneration in Manchester, Assembly Studios

Article written by Ella Tansley | Published 01 August 2025

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