Network Rail has launched Platform4, a new national property development company tasked with transforming brownfield rail land into thriving new communities.

The organisation brings together the expertise of London & Continental Railways Ltd and Network Rail’s former Property Development division, creating a single entity to lead major regeneration and infrastructure-led development projects across Britain’s rail estate.

Platform4 aims to enable the creation of 40,000 new homes and 10 million square feet of commercial space over the next decade — a move designed to stimulate investment, support government housing goals, and drive sustainable economic growth.

The new venture builds on Network Rail’s established property successes, including a retail estate spanning 19 managed stations that generated more than £914 million in sales during the last financial year. The combined experience of the merged teams has already delivered over 7,000 homes in the past year, underlining Platform4’s capacity to deliver large-scale regeneration.

Robin Dobson, Chief Executive Officer of Platform4, said:

“Our railways once powered the first industrial revolution. Today they hold the key to the next. By unlocking and regenerating brownfield land within the rail estate, we will generate further investment, create jobs through the delivery of homes, commercial space and new communities, whilst supporting the government housing agenda.”

The company’s current development pipeline spans 47 towns and cities and 22 London boroughs, with ambitions to create new public and community spaces and deliver £1 billion a year in public value. Platform4 will also manage a portfolio of commercial real estate as part of its wider remit.

Network Rail Chief Executive Jeremy Westlake described the launch as a defining moment for the organisation’s property strategy.

“Today marks a significant milestone as we combine the power of rail and our significant property portfolio to shape communities and drive positive change. Platform4 will help ensure the railway estate continues to deliver value for both the economy and our communities,”

By aligning property development with transport infrastructure, Platform4 is expected to play a central role in modernising disused railway land — from former goods yards to areas surrounding major stations — transforming them into vibrant, connected neighbourhoods designed for future generations.

Image: Network Rail