Introduction:
In this edition of Platform History, we follow along the Marston Vale line from Bletchley to Bedford. The station stands proud in the west of the town centre; the railway station is the larger of the two main stations in Bedford (the other being Bedford St Johns). Bedford Station is a hub on the Midland Main Line, it connects Bedford with London, the East Midlands and beyond. The station has gone through many changes, having been reshaped more that once due to many a circumstance.
Early years:
If we look back to the original Bedford Station, in 1859 it was constructed by the Midland Railway, around 200 yards south of where the station lies today. Soon after, the railway line was connected to the Great Northern Railway, giving further transport links for people in the area. A fascinating yet darker moment of history occurred at a level crossing close to the station. After a driver ignored a red signal, a collision occurred between two trains, mysteriously both drivers were called John Perkins. Following this, a flyover was built to remove the crossing.
Modernisation:
Fast forward into the 20th century, Bedford station fell victim, like many other stations, to the impact of the Second World War. An air raid heavily damaged the booking hall. This damage was enough to demand more than just a patching up of the station. In 1978, a brand-new station was constructed. Roughly 100 yards from the previous site, at a cost of roughly one million pounds. The investment saw vast improvements, a large concourse, ticket office, and an expansion of the car park.
Electrification of the line came to Bedford in the early 1980s which allowed newer units to run on the line improving journey times and lowering carbon emissions.
Where we are now:
Today, Bedford station is busier than ever. Passenger numbers peaked in 2019 with over 4 million passengers passing through the station. The stations passenger numbers continue to recover post pandemic as it is gearing up for more changes. As part of the 'East West Rail project,' Bedford station is to see further major improvements to improve passenger experience and accommodate a higher footfall. The station has already seen a focus on accessibility in its improvements. Step-free access has been improved with a refurbishment of the lifts.