The station was due to be completed in 2015,[2] but Network Rail withdrew their promise of funding. In 2017, Gallagher Estates applied for funding from the government for the station.[3]
In July 2017, it was reported the site would be located further north as part of the East West Rail project.[4]
In January 2019, East West Railway Company revealed 5 options for a potential Bedford-Cambridge route, with 3 of the options proposing a new station at Bedford South close to Wixams. However in January 2020, the preferred route was announced which does not include a Bedford South station.[5]
In January 2022 Bedford Borough Council announced that it has chosen a preferred design for the new station with completion of the station slated for 2024.[6]
By August 2024, preparation work for the site had started,[7] with works officially starting in December.[8] The station is intended to have up to 350 parking spaces with two platforms, and is set to open late 2026.[9]
The station is close to the planned Universal theme park. The station is expected to be significantly expanded in size, to four platforms, if the park is built as planned.[10]
