ExploreStation project enters second stage
NETWORK Rail is hosting a nationwide discussion exploring what people want from smallto-medium railway stations of the future, writes Maud Webster.
Approximately 80% of stations are said to fall into this size category, so NR believes improving their design will have the largest positive reach.
The project began in 2019 when Network Rail and the Design Council asked for new ideas about design principles for future stations in Great Britain. NR then teamed up with the Royal Institute of British Architects to launch the ‘ReImagining Railways’ competition, with the winners 7N Architects proposing a ‘kit of parts’ that is adaptable to differing locations and communities. Core ‘parts’ include space for landscaping, an information clocktower, platform canopy and amenity pods, and a timber pavilion-like structure for commercial and community activities.
Public views
The project is now in an ongoing public consultancy phase called ‘ExploreStation’. In a first round in October 2021, participants expressed concerns that the end result could be generic and soulless. 7N has since reworked its proposal (available to view online at explorestation.commonplace.is) ahead of a second consultancy stage in May.
The public can comment online via the website or attend an in-person workshop in Liverpool (May 11), Manchester (May 12) or Brighton (May 25). Immersive experiences will also be available through bookable appointments in York, Shildon, Manchester, Hereford and Paisley at various times throughout May.