Not sure if anyone has realised (if so, apologies), but the proposal for Bedford results in:
* a new platform for the Up Fast line
* 4 platforms for Thameslink (including 2 central bay platforms)
* a central turnback siding north of the station for Themslink off the slow lines (useful at peak times)
* 3 EWR platforms, one clearly designed as a turnback from the west
Bear in mind, that's for the southern option as part of a big redevelopment the council wants to do of that area, with everything integrated. The consultation makes it very clear what their preferences are, and the northern option is clearly what they want as that doesn't tie them up in a scheme that might not be ready within their timescale. ...and whilst the docs don't provide a similar track diagram for the northern option, it appears to be leaving the bulk of the platforms as they are, but knocking through 1a and building a new island platform east of the current ones to provide 3 EWR platforms.