New station look creates buzz
IT’S the busiest railway station in Manchester
And Piccadilly looks set to remain the gateway to our city for the foreseeable future with the arrival of HS2, in theory.
But while those plans remain a topic of continued political debate, some smaller-scale changes at Piccadilly are definitely on the way. On Monday, Network Rail tweeted out an artist’s impression of new signage at the main entrance on Station Approach as part of wider ‘wayfinding’ improvements.
The design includes a Manchester ‘Bee’ symbol as well two additional ‘Welcome to Manchester Piccadilly’ signs.
It received a generally positive reaction but also sparked a lengthy discussion about other pet peeves at the station. “Love the addition of the bee,” wrote one passenger.
Customer Dave Maxwell suggested: “I would have a big sign all over the front panel glass and a few Manchester Bees up there!”
In response, Network Rail said a larger sign has been considered but that would involved a planning application that would slow the process. Another customer Josh said: “Nice little improvements, but I’m sure you could do something a little more exciting as well.” Another customer added: “Not a fan of the bee I’m afraid. Yes to Rail Alphabet, yes to standard pictograms.
“On the front of the station we really need a nice clear double arrow in red, and a clock!” The idea of clear symbols to indicate rail and Metrolink was echoed by several others, as was the suggestion of a clock.
New rail operator Avanti West Coast say a ‘premium economy-type’ class will be launched on newly-refurbished Pendolino trains between Manchester Piccadilly and London Euston.
It will mean three classes of travel are to be offered on Britain’s domestic railway for the first time in decades.
Passengers who want an upgrade will be able to obtain an enhanced service.