Business leaders welcome landmark new train station

Business leaders welcome landmark new train station

Business leaders have hailed the opening of the first new station on the Great Eastern Main Line in more than 100 years as a significant milestone for the region’s economy.

Beaulieu Park Station officially welcomed its first passengers on Sunday 26 October 2025, marking the completion of a landmark infrastructure project delivered ahead of schedule and on budget.

The Greater Essex Business Board (GEBB) has described the station as a powerful enabler of economic growth, demonstrating Essex’s ability to successfully deliver major infrastructure projects that support businesses and communities.

Already a nationally significant economic hub, Essex benefits from strong sector diversity, international gateways and a skilled workforce.

The new station strengthens connections with London and Cambridge, improving access to markets, talent and investment opportunities. It will also support planned housing and commercial development in the Beaulieu area.

Improved rail infrastructure is a key priority for GEBB, including in its recently published manifesto, with freight capacity identified as a critical driver of long-term economic resilience.

• Strengthening links to London and Cambridge, opening access to new markets and talent pools
• Unlocking housing and commercial development, creating opportunities for SMEs and major employers
• Creating the conditions for small businesses to thrive through improved connectivity
• Reducing road congestion by shifting more freight to rail, improving supply chain resilience
• Reinforcing Essex’s role as a global gateway for trade and inward investment

Julia Gregory, Chair of GEBB, said: “Infrastructure is the backbone of growth. It supports existing businesses and attracts new investment into our county. Beaulieu Park Station reflects the ambition set out in our manifesto – to make Greater Essex a destination for investment, innovation and opportunity.”

Tim Price, GEBB board member who attended the station’s opening event, added: “Projects such as the New Beaulieu Park Rail station strengthen the foundations for the future. The investment in the station is a powerful enabler to continued growth for Essex and further demonstrates the county’s ability to successfully deliver major infrastructure projects that support businesses and communities.

“This must be just the beginning, as more is needed to realise and unlock our full potential.”