Development
Launching Platform4
Thousands of families could soon benefit from high-quality new homes built on surplus railway land, as Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander launches a major property development initiative.
A new Government-owned company, Platform4, has been created to deliver up to 40,000 homes over the next decade, with 15,000 expected in the first five years. This move supports the Government’s Plan for Change commitment to build 1.5 million homes, boosting local economies and attracting private investment.
Unlocking brownfield regeneration
- Surplus railway land across the country is being unlocked for brownfield regeneration.
- Platform4 will lead the transformation of disused sites into vibrant, mixed-use communities.
- The initiative is expected to generate £1bn in development value and create thousands of jobs in the property and retail sectors.
Where will it happen?
New homes, green spaces, retail space, and hotels will be delivered in cities including:
- Manchester Mayfield – up to 1,500 homes
- Newcastle Forth Goods Yard – up to 600 homes
- Cambridge – 425 homes in a mixed-use development
- Nottingham – 200 new homes, building on success at The Barnum
These developments will support urban regeneration and create new opportunities for retail businesses and local services.
Why Platform4?
Previously, surplus rail land was managed separately by London and Continental Railways and Network Rail’s Property team. This led to inefficiencies and missed opportunities.
Platform4 brings these teams together, combining skills and resources to:
- Speed up housing delivery
- Attract investment
- Regenerate communities
- Unlock an extra £227m through joined-up working
Who’s leading it?
Experienced regeneration leader Bek Seeley has been appointed Chair of Platform4. Bek brings deep expertise from both public and private sectors, including her role as Chair of the Euston Housing Delivery Group.
“Our railways are more than just connections between places – they create economic opportunity and drive regeneration. “It’s exciting to picture the thousands of families who will live in these future homes, 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 as part of our Plan for Change promise to build 1.5m homes, while reviving communities around rail stations, supporting jobs and driving economic growth.”
Heidi Alexander, Transport Secretary
