MK City Council approves Bletchley town centre renovation plans and commissions study to explore new station entrance

Milton Keynes City Council has approved renovation plans for Bletchley and Fenny Stratford and committed funding to a new entrance at Bletchley railway station.

At a Cabinet meeting this week, councillors endorsed the Bletchley and Fenny Stratford 2050 Vision, a long-term plan that sets out clear objectives for regeneration, development, improved connectivity and a renewed sense of place.

MK City Council said that the vision is based on more than a year of engagement with residents, businesses and community groups. The strategy is looking to build on the strengths already found in Bletchley and aims to put the heart back into the town through a programme that focuses on both bricks and mortar and overall character.

The plan outlines how key sites such as the Brunel Centre, the former fire station, Queensway and Aylesbury Street can be turned into destinations with independent shops, places to eat and welcoming public spaces.

MK City Council said that the vision complements the work already being led by the Town Council and reflects the priorities set out in the Neighbourhood Plan.

Improvements to parking, walking routes and cycling connections are already under way, and the city council highlighted new opportunities that will flow from stronger national links including a future direct train route to the new Universal Studios UK theme park on the outskirts of Bedford. 

Work along Queensway has already begun and will stop cars from parking on the pavement while creating more parking spaces, including new disabled bays.

MK City Council said that at the meeting of the Cabinet, there was an additional agreement to explore how it can help fund a new eastern entrance to Bletchley Station as part of the East West Rail project.

The entrance would create direct access from the town centre side, encouraging more visitors to spend time in local shops, businesses and attractions. This investment would significantly strengthen the town centre and help make Bletchley and Fenny Stratford one of the best connected areas in the region.

The 2050 Vision is centred on five big ideas shaped by local people:

1. Bringing more life to high streets by creating welcoming, vibrant centres
2. Creating new jobs and skills so people can study, train and build careers close to home
3. Providing greener, healthier and safer neighbourhoods with better parks, sustainable homes and easier ways to travel
4. Celebrating heritage and community through events, culture and creative spaces
5. Making the most of transport connections including East West Rail and improvements to Bletchley Station

Work on the vision is already progressing, with investment secured and partners actively working together to deliver the next steps. 

Deputy Leader of MK City Council, Cllr Lauren Townsend, said, “This is a community vision shaped by the people of Bletchley and Fenny Stratford, and it marks a hugely exciting moment for the area. We have listened, we have learned, and now we are ready to deliver real change.

“Work is already under way, investment is lined up, and with partners across the town we are building a future that puts pride back into Bletchley and Fenny Stratford. With the right focus and continued investment, Bletchley has the potential to become one of the most vibrant and well connected centres in the region.”