Guide to Station Planning and Design Issue 1 Guide to Station Planning and Design A . Introduction...

Guide to Station Planning and Design Issue 1

Issue 1 July 2011

Guide to Station Planning and Design

ii DESIGN GUIDELINESGuide to Station Planning and Design Issue 1

Foreword

Railway stations are at the heart of the nation’s psyche. They feature in blockbuster films, romantic novels and the skylines of many towns and cities. However, they are far more important to the nation than as mere artistic reference points.

Millions of people use the nation’s railway stations every day. Towns and cities have often developed around them, placing railway stations in the heart of many communities. The station can often help to provide an identity or symbol for the town or city; it can act as a point of reference as well as a civic amenity for people who want to use the station’s facilities, whether they are travelling or not.

Done well, their design and operation helps to facilitate the success of the national rail network. A successful railway station will add to the passenger

experience as well as support the economic, social and environmental benefits of rail. Their effective integration with other modes of transport and the surrounding area can provide for an end-to-end journey experience that makes sustainable public transport a real alternative to private vehicle usage.

Given these varying demands on stations it is vitally important that they are planned, designed and improved in a manner that recognises all that they have to offer. I hope that this Guide will aid promoters, planners, architects and sponsors of station schemes to develop railway stations that maintain and enhance the legacy and contribution of stations going forward.

Finally, I would like to thank the individuals and organisations who helped to shape and

review this document including: Department for Transport, CABE, Transport for London, Stagecoach South West Trains, First Group, Disabled Persons Transport Advisory Committee, Passenger Focus, London TravelWatch, English Heritage, PTEG and Transport Scotland.

Mike Goggin

Director, Stations & Customer Service

July 2011

Foreword

iii DESIGN GUIDELINESGuide to Station Planning and Design Issue 1Guide to Station Planning and Design Issue 1 iii CONTENTS

ContentsSection A. Introduction 1

Section B. Design Guidelines 11

Theme 1: Usability 19

Theme 2: Operability 43

Theme 3: Quality 69

Theme 4: Value 91

Section C. Appendix

Glossary of Terms 109

Relevant Reference Documents 110

Network Rail Investment Process 112

Evaluation Framework 115

Section AProvides background information

Section CGlossary and references

Section BSets out a design framework and presents the thematically grouped design criteria

CAppendices

BDesign Guidelines

AIntroduction

iv INTRODUCTIONGuide to Station Planning and Design Issue 1

Spatial organisation in London Liverpool Street station results in distinct zones for retail and passenger activities.

1 INTRODUCTIONGuide to Station Planning and Design Issue 1 1

IntroductionSection A

INTRODUCTION

Manchester Piccadilly Station provides an active, comfortable passenger environment with good service information.

3 INTRODUCTIONGuide to Station Planning and Design Issue 1

Network Rail owns and operates Britain’s rail infrastructure and aims to provide a quality and range of facilities across the UK’s stations that will ensure stations continue to contribute to the success of transportation in this country.

Stations, their facilities and amenities, together with the multi-modal transport connections they offer, form an essential part of their passengers’ overall journey experience; they also perform an important role for local communities, which regard them as civic buildings in their own right.

Network Rail owns more than 2,500 stations of all ages and building types across Great Britain and is responsible for the fabric of all of them, with

About Network Rail

short and long-term investment plans to support their long-term future. As one of the longest surviving portfolio of buildings still operated for the purpose for which they were originally intended, Network Rail is directly responsible for the management and running of the UK’s largest stations (18 in total), which have a combined footfall of over 1 billion per annum. The remainder are leased, occupied and managed by Train Operating Companies (TOCs).

Delivering station improvements in the context of such an active and busy network presents significant challenges, not least in maintaining operational integrity and passenger satisfaction while works – which can often last for a decade or more – are successfully completed.

It is essential that stations are managed, developed and maintained to the optimum operating, commercial and architectural standards commensurate with a viable long term business case. As such, Network Rail looks to partner as appropriate with Train Operators (TOCs), local councils, developers and passenger authorities such as Passenger Transport Executives (PTEs) and Transport for London to maximise possible station investment.

Note: While this Guide relates primarily to the facilities experienced by passengers and station visitors, it also relates to the design of wider facilities that interface with these amenities. This includes waste management, servicing and maintenance and staff accommodation. It does not relate to track, signalling, overhead line equipment or other railway ‘systems’ design.

About Network Rail


The Network Rail Guide to Station Planning and Design (hereafter called the Guide) provides an overview of what Network Rail considers to be important in the planning and design of all stations in the UK. The level of provision will vary depending on size, function and form of the station and should reflect multi-modal access needs and interchange opportunities.

The Guide will be relevant to new or enhancement projects as well as to major renewals or maintenance projects and can be used on all project design stages, from developing the design brief to evaluating an existing station or assessing proposed design solutions.

To support its use, the Guide proposes a design framework, incorporating current best practice that will be used by Network Rail, and could be used by the broader rail industry to supplement individual company design guidance. Detailed design guidance (including standards and specifications) on specific

Purpose of the Guide to Station Planning and Design

components, e.g. platforms, is available in the Network Rail Design and Construction Handbook, which should be read in conjunction with this Guide.

In particular the Guide:

• Presents an overview of Network Rail’s approach to station design in a single, easily accessible resource.

• Provides a design framework to help balance the varied objectives of all parties involved in the design and operation of stations.

• Promotes the importance of stations in terms of regeneration, accessibility and the environment.

• Identifies ways for stations to integrate into their local context and community more successfully.

• Ensures that facilities proposed for station developments give due consideration to sizing, cost and commercial opportunity.

• Seeks to raise awareness of good practices in station design.

The Guide forms part of a coordinated strategy for the design and management of stations and relates to a wider suite of station planning and design documentation, including:

• Station Capacity Assessment Guidelines.

• Network Route Utilisation Strategies (Stations).

• Managed Stations Wayfinding Guidelines.

Audience

The Guide is intended to support sponsors and project managers throughout the design and development process. It is hoped that all parties involved in station design and operations will find its approach useful and consistent with their own design approach or standards. Widespread adoption of the Guide’s approach and considerations will assist in co-promotion of stations and help to deliver station environments that consistently meet with the needs of all user groups and stakeholders.

The Street, St Pancras International Station, London

Purpose of the Guide to Station Planning and Design


Railway stations play a vital role for passengers, non-travelling users and the communities in which they are located. They serve the growing needs of an increasingly mobile population and are used by a wide range of users.

With over three million journeys made by rail each day, Network Rail recognises the importance of its customers and the need to put passengers first. To ensure that the expectations of its customers are met in full, the Guide places passengers at the forefront of the design process, acknowledging that all elements of station design should be considered to help meet their needs.

In order to understand fully the perceptions of these users it is important to engage with them from the outset of the design process to ensure that their requirements are understood and integrated.

Stations are primarily a means of access to the national rail

The importance of good station design

network, in turn acting as a gateway to or from other destinations. They have become increasingly important as destinations in their own right – as places to shop, work, or simply to meet family and friends. Most stations also function as interchange hubs, providing connections between different transport modes.

What makes a good station?

A station is made up of several constituent parts and, from the perspective of its users, fulfils a range of roles and functions. Typically, its customers will include commuters, those interchanging between services and long-distance passengers or tourists, as well as the non-travelling public. There is also a range of different station types, typical to their location: ‘city centre’, ‘urban’, ‘rural’ and ‘parkway’. Each station will also differ in form – in terms of both shape and size. A good station

design will give due consideration to the location, role and function the station will play and the different users it will serve.

Consultation on the future of Britain’s railways with passengers and stakeholders indicates that provision of the ‘basics’ is still of primary importance to the passenger. This typically includes facilities and amenities such as seated waiting areas, toilets, sufficient and easy-to-use ticket sales facilities/machines, cash points and reliable information. As the size of a station increases, its function changes: current findings indicate that day-to-day passengers also have an appetite for more extensive facilities within large stations, as well as a willingness to embrace new experiences such as retail and socialising, which are not traditionally associated with stations in the UK.

Station buildings should be welcoming, safe to use, easy to navigate and contribute

positively to the overall journey experience. They should encourage users to return and to regard rail travel as the most convenient and enjoyable way to travel. It is important to provide a suitable balance between the front- and back-of-house requirements so that passenger, operational and management needs can be met while not interfering with each other unduly.

This Guide recognises the need for compliance with all legislative requirements in accordance with Network Rail’s role as a Statutory Undertaker. It also acknowledges the need to refer to established user group representatives to help inform the design process.

A range of useful guidance and policy documents are located at the end of this Guide (see Relevant Reference Documents ).

The importance of good station design


Station designs need to cater for a broad range of activities and should be resilient to the changing conditions experienced within a station, both during the operational day and throughout the year. Depending on context, station design may also need to accommodate a range of operational scenarios, such as major events, changes to service, or adverse weather conditions.

The design of a station must recognise the differing needs and aspirations of the station’s varied stakeholders and user groups. As a minimum requirement all users should expect a clean, efficient, accessible, reliable, safe and legible facility but over and above this, individual user groups may have particular expectations or needs. Some of the most relevant are outlined here.

User priorities

Commuters gain familiarity with a station through daily use. With low dwell times on stations, the overriding objective is to minimise journey time. They require:

• Reliable services supported by real time information on delays and service disruption.

• Efficient transfer.• Direct access to and from

station thresholds, including access to car parking and taxi pick-up and drop-off points.

• Fast and efficient ticket collection.

• Convenient retail facilities.• Real time information displays

for onward travel.

Business Travellers are frequent travellers, used to first-class facilities and high levels of comfort. Periods of time spent on stations will vary, often according to connecting services or modes. They require:

• High-quality, comfortable waiting areas.

• Clean, efficient and functional facilities.

• Direct access to and from station thresholds, including access to car parking and taxi pick up and drop off points.

• Fast and efficient ticket collection.

• Convenient retail and food and beverage outlets.

• Real time information displays for onward travel.

Leisure users and tourists are typically less time constrained and generally less familiar with rail stations than commuters. A range of factors such as language constraints, baggage and cultural differences may drive their needs. They require:

• A welcoming, safe environment that promotes understanding and reassurance.

• Accessible route provision and ease of navigation through legible design, wayfinding and clear, consistent information.

• Left luggage facilities and a visible staff presence.

• A range of food and beverage and retail outlets.


Station visitors: are those who may wish to use the station for non-travelling purposes. This group is likely to include people that arrive to ‘meet and greet’ family and friends, use the station to shop or to eat. Their needs are met by the diversity of station functions and amenities. They require:

• A range of food and beverage and retail outlets.

• Clean, comfortable and safe waiting areas and meeting points with departure and arrivals information and wayfinding.

• Attractive and accessible public spaces.

• Short-term parking and ‘kiss and ride’ facilities.


User priorities


User priorities

Station Managers and Train Operators are primarily measured on train service performance, customer satisfaction and patronage levels. Being commercial entities they seek to optimise revenues while minimising operating costs. They require:

• Appropriate back-of-house space to accommodate operational and staff requirements.

• Efficient and accessible movement of passengers with efficient, simple and convenient connections between services.

• Clean, attractive and comfortable passenger and staff facilities to support the overall passenger journey experience.

• A range of retail opportunities where commercially viable.

• Provision for planned maintenance and associated use of servicing equipment that doesn’t impact on train or station operations.

Transport Authority/Agency / PTEs are responsible for the development of integrated transport networks. This sometimes includes responsibility for roads as well as public transport. They require:

• Effective integration with other modes of transport and focus on an end-to-end journey experience.

• Influence over mode choice to access the rail network in more sustainable fashion and influence over demand for modes to match available capacity.

• Inclusive and accessible places that meet with broader social objectives of inclusivity and accessibility.

Local authorities see station improvements as an opportunity to support economic growth and regeneration of an area through enhanced access to jobs and services. This results in:

• An enhanced built and natural environment that encourages investment in the area.

• A high quality urban realm that is safe and attractive to the station user.

• Integration with other transport modes (where there is no separate transport authority).

• Increased legibility, permeability and catchment around the station.

Commercial and retail operators (as well as developers) will want to provide facilities that yield high visitor numbers and maximise revenues through longer dwell times on stations. They require:

• A high quality, mixed-use space within the station with appropriate commercial premises located to maximise footfall.

• A range of goods and services appropriate to the size, location and function of the station.

• An offer that extends beyond travelling passengers.

• Appropriate back-of-house space to accommodate operational and staff needs.

• Efficient servicing access.

User priorities


Landmark design delivers a strong sense of place and a quality passenger experience. St Pancras International station, London.

Spatial Priorities


Introduction

Glossary of Terms

Design Guidelines

Usability

Usability

Efficiency

Efficiency

Quality

Quality

Value

Value

Reference Documents

U

E

Q

V

The needs of a typical passenger can be represented in three key zones of a station. These are: the Access Zone, the Facilities Zone and the Platform Zone.

The extent and quantity of facilities within each zone will vary, but in each case the welcome offered and the quality of the service should remain the same wherever the station is on the network. This will ensure that passengers and station visitors will have confidence in the total journey experience and can anticipate how their requirements will be met when visiting a station for the first time.

Effective spatial management plays a significant role in the logic and quality of passenger and station visitor movement, supported by subsidiary systems such as station wayfinding and information displays. Consideration should be given to the differing needs of arriving and departing passengers.

Spatial Priorities

Cycle

O�ce/Residential/Commercial

StationManagement

Zone 1Access and Interchange Zone(Access/Arrival)

Zone 2Facilities Zone(Passenger Amenities)

Zone 3Platform Zone(Boarding/Alighting)

Ped

Info

Info

Rec Left Lug.

Retail &Catering

WCs Info

Sta Bus

Car/Taxi

Localarea

Departing passengers need access to buy tickets and to obtain accurate travel information related to their intended journey.

Arriving passengers contemplating onward journeys need directions and information related to those journeys. Some of this information can be located within the Facilities Zone, but most of it needs to be co-located with the relevant mode.

A summary of the typical activities or facilities found in the three key Zones are:

Zone 1: Access and Interchange

Zone 1 acts as a gateway between the station and its surrounding environment. Key requirements in Zone 1 are provision of clear, unobstructed movement to external destinations - such as office/residential developments or other transport modes - and to/

Station zones

from station facilities within Zone 2 ensuring accessible, legible and safe navigation to, from and through the station.

For external movements, it is often necessary to consider those that extend beyond the physical boundary of the station through areas that may be managed by third party organisations.

Zone 1 designs should cater for the differing requirements of arriving and departing passengers.

Spatial Priorities


Zone 2: Core facilities and Services

It is within Zone 2 that the primary travel needs of passengers and station visitors are generally met, with the range of passenger information, services and facilities and their distribution and location being key to the planning of this Zone.

Key facilities - such as travel information, waiting areas, toilets, left luggage, retail and food and beverage - should follow a logical grouping based around the needs of the passenger and should be visible (or be clearly signed) from the point of access from adjacent zones. Sight of the Platform Zone can help the passenger judge the time that it will take to gain access to the platform.

Addressing these needs as soon as possible upon arrival in the zone will help facilitate a positive passenger experience.

Spatial Priorities

Zone 3: Platforms

Access between Zone 2 and Zone 3 (platform) is often controlled by ticket checks, whether by manual inspection or Automatic Ticket Gates (ATGs). This threshold ensures that train access and egress can be managed safely and securely.

At this stage of a journey, passengers have the means to travel and are well informed. All that remains is to ensure that timely departure information is available and that safe boarding and alighting is facilitated.

In some instances - where through platforms also act as waiting areas - the boundary between the Zones 2 and 3 may not be clearly defined. In these instances it is important that the quality of the service, facility and/or space is maintained such that the overall journey experience remains positive.

Spatial Priorities

11 DESIGN GUIDELINESGuide to Station Planning and Design Issue 1

This Guide will be relevant to new or enhancement projects as well as to major renewals or maintenance projects and will help to meet the needs of all stakeholders. It can be used on all design stages of a project, from developing the design brief to evaluating an existing station or assessing proposed design solutions.

ODesign GuidelinesSection B


Design Framework and Themes

The Design Guide is structured as a framework around four design themes that support Network Rail’s corporate vision and policies – Usability, Efficiency, Quality and Value.

Each of these themes includes a number of design principles and supporting design topics and criteria that should be considered and addressed equally during the planning or design stages of all station design projects. However, some topics or criteria may only be appropriate in particular circumstances, while others may not always be relevant.

The four Design Themes are articulated through a number of guiding Principles listed in the table on page 13 . Each principle includes one or more criteria that should be considered and addressed during the planning or design stage of a station.

The Design Themes are:

Usability The movement of passengers, public transport vehicles and non-users through a station can be complex. It is important to plan and design safe, secure, legible and accessible spaces that make the use of our stations easy, attractive and accessible for all users.

Operability Effective planning, management and operation of stations is essential to realise a positive outcome for users and operators. Operability includes consideration of service coordination, operating costs, integrated ticketing, maintenance, safety and servicing.

Quality Integrated, high quality station environments will improve all aspects of a station user’s experience. Design of high quality facilities is based on a combination of performance, accessibility and function, all of which form an essential part of a user’s experience while remaining adaptable and able to meet with the changing needs of passengers and function.

Value Planning and design of stations must deliver good value for money, give due consideration to environmental and ecological impacts and consider wider opportunities for regeneration and development.

Design Framework and Themes


Design and Evaluation Framework

Usability Operability Quality ValueThe movement of passengers, public transport vehicles and non-users through a station can be complex. It is important to plan and design safe, legible and accessible spaces that make the use of our stations easy, attractive and accessible for all users.

Effective planning, management and operation of stations is essential to realise a positive outcome for users and operators. Operability includes consideration of service coordination, operating costs, integrated ticketing, maintenance, safety and servicing.

Designing integrated, high quality station environments will improve all aspects of a station user’s experience. Design of high quality facilities is based on a combination of performance, accessibility and function, all of which form an essential part of a user’s experience while remaining adaptable and able to meet with changing passenger and functional needs.

Planning and design of stations must deliver good value for money, give due consideration to environmental and ecological impacts, and consider wider opportunities for regeneration and development.

U1 MovementU1.1 Plan spatial capacity to meet with predicted

future demandU1.2 Design legible spaces, with direct, convenient

routesU1.3 Provide multiple access points to increase

permeability and catchment areaU1.4 Provide high quality lighting to support

passenger movement and activities

O1 Station operations O1.1 Provide appropriate spatial capacity for all

station functionsO1.2 Coordinate modal integrationO1.3 Provide for efficient service vehicle and delivery

access and storageO1.4 Provide appropriate and convenient

facilities for station staff

Q1 Integration with contextQ1.1 Design station facilities to integrate with the

public realmQ1.2 Design for an interconnected network of

streets, footpaths, bike routes and public spaces

Q1.3 Encourage provision of active public spaces in surrounding areas

V1 Whole-life costs V1.1 Consider whole-life and life-cycle costsV1.2 Optimise functionality of built design

U2 Access and inclusivityU2.1 Provide obstacle- and step-free spaces to

accommodate the needs of all usersU2.2 Optimise lift and escalator locations and

capacitiesU2.3 Provide for mobility assistance buggies

where appropriate

O2 Management & maintenance O2.1 Facilitate efficient station maintenance and

cleaning O2.2 Establish rights and responsibilities of

stakeholdersO2.3 Use robust and resilient materialsO2.4 Establish an agreed heritage asset

management process

Q2 Promote good designQ2.1 Consider scale, massing and orientation of

buildings and spacesQ2.2 Design station environments where people

want to travel, shop and workQ2.3 Use high quality materials and finishes

appropriate to station context and function

V2 Positive economic, social and environmental impact

V2.1 Apply environmental design best practice standards

V2.2 Minimise energy use and explore sustainable energy sources

V2.3 Consider embodied energy and ease of maintenance

U3 Wayfinding and Passenger InformationU3.1 Provide service information to meet with the

needs of all passengers U3.2 Provide consistent wayfinding and signing,

integrated within the built designU3.3 Provide information and direction beyond the

station footprintU3.4 Provide accessible information throughout

the station to enhance inclusivity

O3 Passenger safety O3.1 Design facilities and spaces to minimise the

potential for accidents to staff and station users

O3.2 Ensure full compliance with all statutory emergency requirements

Q3 Sense of PlaceQ3.1 Locate and design stations to promote a

positive image and identity while respecting their local context

Q3.2 Consider landmark design where demand or status provides justification

Q3.3 Add value through landscaping and public art

V3 Respect and conserve natural systemsV3.1 Design landscapes to preserve and restore

natural habitatsV3.2 Maintain and improve soil, water quality and

use

U4 Comfort and attractivenessU4.1 Provide appropriate facilities, amenities and

spacesU4.2 Provide effective climate protection, noise

mitigation and control against unpleasant sensory experiences

U4.3 Provide appropriate space for waiting areas

O4 Be secure by designO4.1 Assess and minimise the risk of malicious

practices or natural threats through secure and sensitive design

O4.2 Prevent crime through environmental designO4.3 Design usable, active and secure facilities

and spaces for day and night useO4.4 Provide for effective use of CCTV

Q4 Anticipate passengers’ dynamic, changing needs

Q4.1 Design responsive and flexible places

V4 Act as a catalyst for regenerationV4.1 Optimise revenue generating opportunitiesV4.2 Integrated developments

Design and Evaluation Framework


Example Evaluation Framework

Multi-disciplinary design development workshop

involving key stakeholders.

The evaluation framework sits alongside the overall business case for a scheme. It can help to provide a qualitative narrative, demonstrating how proposals align with political priorities and Network Rail aspirations.

The framework offers a systematic approach to evaluation. The example illustrated on the facing page uses a ‘traffic light’ system to rate each design principle as ‘green’, ‘amber’ or ‘red’:

• A green light signifies that all criteria under that principle have been considered and addressed.

• An amber light signifies that some, if not all, have been considered and addressed.

• A red light signifies that few, if any, have been considered and addressed.

Those principles rating ‘red’ or ‘amber’ may require further consideration if the station or design proposal is to meet with best practice.

The evaluation framework is not intended to limit flexibility; as such, no weightings are applied (although decisions about the transport functionality of a station would always be expected to take precedence over matters of aesthetics).

The relative significance or importance of each principle will vary depending on context, local objectives and strategic priorities – while regeneration may be the highest priority at one location, for example, it might be transport integration somewhere else. These priorities should be agreed jointly with stakeholders at the project outset and contained within the design brief.

Where there is a competition for space or the physical form of the design, it may be appropriate to identify those principles which best reflect the objectives of the project while balancing the needs of those user groups identified in the User Priorites section of this Guide.

Application of the evaluation framework can inform the response of planners, designers and operators to a fundamental set of questions: is it functional; is it affordable; can it be built; is it maintainable?



Quality Comments Actions

Q1 Integration with contextQ1.1 Integration with the public realm

Does the station design integrate seamlessly with the surrounding public realm?

Q1.2 Interconnected networksIs accessibility to and from the local area enhanced through provision of interconnected streets, bike routes and public spaces?

P2.3 Support provision of active and animated spacesHave surrounding public spaces been designed to provide high quality places where people will want to linge and enjoy?

Q2 Promote good designQ2.1 Scale, massing and orientation

Has the relationship of the station and any surrounding development been considered to ensure a positive integration that opens up views, sightlines and maximises energy optimisation opportunities?

Q2.2 Design welcoming placesDoes the station design provide for a mix of uses to provide welcoming places appropriate to use, context and function?

Q2.3 Materials and finishes

Have materials been selected to provide a balance between function, performance, sustainability, cost efficency and appearance?

Have standardised and modular elements been considered where appropriate?

Q3 Sense of placeQ3.1 Promote a positive image and identity sympathetic to the local context

Is the facility design appropriate and responsive to its local context?Does the station design foster a distinctive identity?

Q3.2 Landmark design

Does status or demand justify distinctive, landmark design?Q3.2 Landscaping and publlc art

Has landscaping and public art been considered and integrated as part of the built design?

Q4 Anticipate passengers' changinmg and dynamic needsQ4.1 Responsive and flexible places

Does the design anticipate the need for future change in either capacity, technology or surrounding land use?

RatingThe example framework shown on this page has been constructed around the guidelines and summarises the design criteria as a series of questions that can be rated red, amber or green.

The complete framework is included within Section C of this Guide .




Good spatial organisation with clear sightlines and unobstructed passenger movements. Manchester Piccadilly Station.

Post Delivery Evaluation



It is important to consider how post delivery evaluation can inform station design through performance monitoring and lessons learnt. Undertaking periodic surveys of customer satisfaction on stations can provide useful insight, informing both Managers and Design teams how customer perceptions have changed over time. It can help establish those areas that need greatest attention during design development.

Both the survey findings and the lessons learnt can be passed on to other project teams to inform them of key issues, constraints or solutions that they may wish to consider.



Stations and their surroundings incorporate a number of different functions. They offer public transport services arriving and departing from different locations, ticketing facilities, waiting areas, retail and catering (or other commercial) opportunities, and onward travel by bus, cycle, taxi or on foot.

The movement of passengers, public transport vehicles and non-users through a station can be complex. Therefore, it is important to plan and design safe, legible and accessible spaces that make the use of our stations intuitive, attractive and accessible for all users.

The design theme of Usability is covered by four design principles:

• Movement• Access and Inclusivity• Wayfinding and Passenger Information• Comfort and Attractiveness

Usability


Convenient, landscaped pedestrian and cycle connections with natural vegetation. Liverpool South Parkway

U1 Movement


U1 Movement1

Usability

A station is a dynamic environment, involving movement and potential conflicts between a range of station users. Movement within and around the station environment should be logical, comfortable and optimised to minimise conflict now and into the future.

The design guidelines for Movement are presented in four sections, covering the following topics:

• U1.1: The planning of spatial capacity to meet with predicted future demand.

• U1.2: Guidance on how to design legible spaces, with direct, convenient routes and visibility.

• U1.3: The provision of adequate access points to facilitate entry and increase catchment area.

• U1.4: Guidance on the provision of high quality lighting to support movement and other passenger functions.

1 Further guidance on the assessment, planning and modelling for pedestrian movement and capacity can be found in Network Rail’s “Station Capacity Assessment Guide”

U1 Movement

http://www.networkrail.co.uk/browse%20documents/rus%20documents/route%20utilisation%20strategies/network/working%20group%202%20-%20stations/station%20capacity%20assessment%20(not%20part%20of%20the%20rus)/stationcapacityassessmentguidance.pdf


U1.1 Plan spatial capacity to meet with predicted future demand

Usability > U1 Movement

It’s not enough to consider current usage when planning or redesigning a station – to maximise value, a careful evaluation of its predicted future use must be taken into account.

• Establish the capacity, configuration and spatial sequence needed to support predicted volumes of movement up to an agreed future year.

• Identify existing and planned internal and external origins and destinations and establish predicted levels of demand for passengers and non-travelling users.

• Analyse potential patterns of future demand via stakeholder consultation, known industry statistics and local area plans.

• Provide sufficient capacity to meet current and expected levels of activity and movement between key points within the station and its surrounding context.

• Design for development integration so that station capacity, operations and internal circulation requirements can be maintained or enhanced.

• Design to minimise cross flows at decision, entrance and exit points.

• Provide sufficient capacity where movement spaces meet, such as at entrances, exits,. decision spaces or gatelines, and design areas to be clear of unnecessary obstructions.

• Locate information, TVMs and ticket windows where passengers using the information or facilities do not obstruct the movement of others or interfere with essential station operations.

Fruin Level of Service

Network Rail calculates its special requirements for operational premises taking into account a number of factors such as potential congestion, movement speeds and clearance times. One of the benchmark assessment criteria that is used to assess congestion is the Fruin Levels of Service (Fruin Levels of Service )

Further details of how this and other methodologies are to be used can be found in the Network Rail Station Capacity Assessment Guide.

• When appropriate, consider the use of analytical techniques or computer aided modelling software to validate station users’ movements and capacities, particularly at passenger decision points, queue locations and cross flows such as: • entrances and exits to the

station;• vertical circulation (especially

at the top and bottom of escalators and stairs, and at entrances to lifts);

• gatelines;• ticket offices or windows.• platforms and primary

circulation routes and any passenger entrances onto these routes.

Relevant Network Rail Guidance:Network Rail Station Capacity Assessment Guidance

U1 Movement





U1.2 Design legible spaces, with direct, convenient routes


A legible space is one that is uncomplicated in design and simple for users to understand. Legible spaces help to remove the anxiety caused by a complex or unfamiliar environment and enhance the user’s enjoyment and experience.

• Identify principal destinations in order to establish the station’s internal movement structure. Direct, safe, attractive connections between key facilities help create more convenient and comfortable places.

• Design to minimise potential conflicts between different flows and provide an intuitive environment. Provision should be made for those moving against the predominant flow.

• Provide direct sightlines between principal destinations, uncluttered spaces with consistent environmental design and a positive use of lighting and colour.

Clear, unobstructed passenger movement with good sightlines to principal destinations. St Pancras International station, London.

Temporary retail kiosk and ‘A’ boards obstruct sightlines and movement spaces. Manchester Piccadilly station.

• Plan pedestrian routes to maximise spatial efficiency and minimise the transfer penalty by following natural desire lines (the route by which a user is most likely to use to get between principal destinations). This minimises the number of passengers who may choose a quicker, more informal route over a safer one. Attempting to force passengers into unnecessarily long or circuitous routes can lead to recommended routes being ignored or cause unnecessary pedestrian conflicts.

U1 Movement



U1.3 Provide multiple access points to increase permeability and catchment area

Taking into account the needs of security and operational integrity, stations should, where possible provide multiple points for pedestrian and vehicular access. Optimising access to the station clarifies connections to services, facilities and destinations while giving all users a greater choice of route to and from the station and help to minimise journey times.

• Design station layouts to maximise the number of direct connections to streets, ‘transport hubs’ and destinations within the surrounding context to provide the greatest route choice for all users and increase the potential for mixed-use areas within and around the station.

• Ensure issues of severance with the local context and barriers from transport functions are mitigated or removed altogether, through intelligent and best practice design.

• Quantify the scale of movements to and from existing, and planned surrounding communities (residential, employment, retail or leisure areas, by foot or bicycle) to:• assist in the planning of entry

and exit points to and from stations;

• develop new pedestrian routes;

• inform decisions about enhancements;

• establish level of investment;• minimise inter-modal

conflicts.• Re-size existing, and open new,

through routes to improve access into the whole station and allow people to move in straight lines rather than diverted paths.

• Ensure the design and location of access points adhere to the principles of Crime Prevention through Environmental Design (see O4 ).

Multiple entry points provide permeable access and movement to, from and through Leeds station.

• Work closely with key stakeholders to identify appropriate ways in which the catchment area of a station can be increased and integrated design solutions realised (see Q1 ).

U1 Movement


U1.4 Provide high quality lighting to support passenger movement and activities


Lighting plays a central role in creating comfortable, safe environments for customers, staff and other station users. Lighting that is appropriate to location and function will result in increased safety, legibility, accessibility, security, ambience and, therefore, public satisfaction.

• Integrate managed, natural lighting where possible to minimise energy consumption.

• Design a task-based lighting strategy to deliver light where and when it is needed appropriate to location and function that will:• avoid glare, improve

visibility, visual comfort and adaptation, especially for partially sighted and visually impaired users;

• prevent undesirable dark corners and potential vandalism;

• provide consistent light levels for visual comfort, understanding and safety.

• Provide consistent illumination through indirect lighting/lighting of all surfaces (walls, ceilings and floor).

• Design lighting to minimise reflected glare and avoid highly reflective gloss finishes.

• Use lighting to define routes between places and highlight important features and destinations without the need for additional infrastructure. Lighting from retail and other commercial outlets should not detract from these positive effects.

• Illuminated routes should be evenly lit, avoiding sudden changes in lighting levels, glare, dark spots or pooling that could create confusion for visually impaired users.

Balanced integration of managed daylight and artifical illumination. Manchester Piccadilly station.

Poor transition from artificial light to daylight. Birmingham New Street station.

U1 Movement


Proposed new footbridge to improve accessibility at historic Denmark Hill Station.

U2 Access and inclusivity


Accessible design ensures stations are easy to use for all passengers and station users.

Accessible station design is about making places easy to use for all passengers and station users. Users include people with visual or cognitive impairments, those in wheelchairs, older people, people with heavy or bulky baggage, young children and their carers, and those with bicycles.

Accessible design relates to stations, their amenities, surrounding context and information systems that support movement, use and understanding.

The Equality Act makes it a legal requirement to ensure disabled people are not discriminated against. Transport providers therefore have a duty to demonstrate reasonable efforts in reducing, or removing altogether, barriers to access or use, both to and within stations. In respect of buildings and physical provisions this means compliance with relevant codes of practice, such as outlined in the DfT’s Accessible Train Station Design for Disabled People: A Code of Practice (2010) .

Best practice exists where environments and facilities are one and the same for all passengers right across the station.

The design guidelines for Accessible and Inclusive are presented in three sections, covering the following topics:

• U2.1: How to provide obstacle and step-free spaces to accommodate the needs of all users.

• U2.2: Optimising lift and escalator locations and capacities.• U2.3: Guidance on the provision of mobility assistance buggies

where appropriate.

U2 Accessible and Inclusive

Usability


http://www2.dft.gov.uk/transportforyou/access/rail/railstations/accessiblestationdesigns/pdf/cop.pdf



U2.1 Provide obstacle and step free spaces to accommodate the needs of all users

Providing an accessible environment means making movement routes the same for all users, not requiring passengers with mobility or other impairments to follow circuitous routes away from principal passenger flows.

• Ensure that the environment is clutter free and that there is appropriate tonal contrast between floor and wall surfaces.

• Locate step-free routes in intuitive locations that are not isolated from the main pedestrian flows, with long sightlines highlighting their suitability.

• Locate wide, at-grade crossing at inter-modal connections set on desire lines and avoid level changes for underpasses and footbridges.

• Where barriers along a route require passengers with mobility impairments to take a detour, clearly identify alternative routes at the most appropriate decision point to allow timely route selection.

• Where stepped routes are unavoidable or are necessary, these should be clearly distinguished and signed (for example identifying ramp, stair, escalator and lift routes) with, the best possible accessible alternative identified on the same sign.

• Identify all hazards such as platform edges, change of grade at stairs and ramps with high contrast finishes, and ensure uniform lighting to minimise possible risk of accidents.

• Platform boarding edges shall have tactile warning surfaces and a contrasting edge along the full length of the public area of the platform.

Usability > U2 Accessible and Inclusive

Lift entrance located on main pedestrian flow with good sightlines and uncluttered spaces to and from key destinations. Leeds station.



Lift and escalator locations should be positioned so that they remain in close proximity to existing movement spaces and desire lines. This will optimise journey or connection time for all users, reduce the risk of conflicting passenger flows and, by avoiding isolated areas, harnesses a greater sense of safety and wellbeing for the user.

• Wherever possible, locate lifts and escalators directly on passenger desire lines rather than in locations that would lengthen journeys or raise personal security fears (see O4.2 ).

• Evaluate waiting areas and capacities at lift entrances to avoid conflict with pedestrian movements in adjacent areas.

• Locate lifts such that entry/exit routes and waiting areas have good natural surveillance and consider the use of glass/transparent structures.

• Consider the provision of alternative accessible routes in the event of planned or unplanned lift or escalator maintenance.

• Lift dimensions should be suitable for wheelchair users and those with luggage or pushchairs giving due consideration to the volume of passengers expected to use them.

U2.2 Optimise lift and escalator locations and capacities

Usability > U2 Accessible and Inclusive

Mobility assistance buggies are available at major stations to support mobility-impaired passengers to gain access to and from train services and facilities.

• Identify convenient locations for mobility assistance buggies avoiding impacts on station operations

• Consider ancillary measures such as help points and signage from which assistance can be requested.

U2.3 Provide for mobility assistance buggies where appropriate

Mobility buggies support movement for mobility-impaired passengers. Euston station, London.

Lift located on desire lines with good natural surveillance and use of transparent structure. Paddington station, London.



U3 Wayfinding and Passenger Information

Usability

Adopting principles of accessible and legible design for passenger information and wayfinding from the outset will result in places that are easy to use, require minimal signage and are well integrated with their surroundings.

The philosophy underlying signing and passenger information at stations should be that of clarity, consistency and coherence in order to guide people through the stations in a steady, convenient and safe manner helping to ensure station users have a positive, stress-free experience. This philosophy supports a well-planned and well laid out station, and is integral to its design.

Information is a fundamental requirement for a positive passenger experience. Information can serve multiple uses including: rail services, station and facility opening hours, maps of the local area and information for interchange modes. Information should be delivered across the full range of media including audio, visual and tactile to meet with the needs of all interchange facility users.

The design guidelines for Wayfinding and Passenger Information are presented in four sections, covering the following topics:

• U3.1: Guidance on information for passengers and other station users.

• U3.2: Guidance on providing consistent wayfinding and signing, integrated with the built design.

• U3.3: Inclusion of wayfinding information beyond the station footprint.

• U3.4: The provision of accessible information.

Principal passenger information and wayfinding design factors include:

• Informing passengers and pedestrians of service and journey options, including interchange opportunities.

• Facilitating simple access to, from and around transport facilities, surrounding environments and communities with clear sightlines to minimise the need for physical signs.

• Identifying key external destinations and desire lines between these and transport facilities.

• Supporting emergency evacuation requirements.

• Supporting incident management.



Usability > U3 Wayfinding and Passenger Information

U3.1 Provide service information to meet with the needs of all passengers

Information needs vary by passenger type and journey stage. For example, regular commuters may value timely warning of disruptions or delays more than detailed timetables, visitors on the other hand, benefit from simple service, ticket and location information that enables them to understand the journey options available to them. Disabled passengers, who may have concerns over their ability to move around safely require information on accessibility of stations, facilities and help that may be available for their particular needs.

• Provide for passenger information and announcements across the station environment including within concourse, platforms, retail, food & beverage and waiting areas – electronically and through staff and static signage – to ensure that passengers are aware of general information and information on service disruptions.

• Consider the use of audio and visual displays as well as mobile phones, audio loops, portable sound and near field technologies to provide passengers with timely information where and when they need it.

• Ensure that traditional communication channels, including the use of printed information, tactile information and station staff are consistent with dynamic information including:

• Service departure information;

• Identification of interchange facilities and accessible routes to those facilities;

• Safety information and instructions;

• Warning, prohibition and mandatory actions.

• Use an appropriate ‘tone of voice’ to help the passenger understand the relative importance of different pieces of information.

Printed service information located centrally on the passenger concourse. London Waterloo station.

Inter-modal information screen provides information for onward journeys. Gatwick Airport station.



U3.2 Provide consistent wayfinding and signing, integrated with the built design

It is essential that signs be positioned where people need them most. These locations are generally route decision points, such as entrances, exits and junctions. Decision point signs normally provide directional information to way out routes, inter-modal transport connections, platforms and key facilities.

Integrated wayfinding minimises physical obstructions to movement and helps station users see the station and its surroundings as part of one cohesive system.

• Signing for Network Rail Managed Stations must comply with the Network Rail Managed Stations Wayfinding and Signing Design Guidelines and Standards 2010, including the provision of temporary information as required during station improvement projects.

• Avoid excessive signage, which may be counterproductive and may create unnecessary clutter.

• Design wayfinding to be seamless to help passengers move between different locations, using all modes of transport in one continuous journey.

• Design routes to be simple and legible requiring minimal signing by integrating spatial planning, lighting and surface finishes alongside other building elements such as public art and landscaping.

• Wayfinding signage must always take visual priority over other information and its view must always remain unobstructed from key reading directions.

• Locate consistent and simple wayfinding information at station entrances. exits and decision points to confirm route choice.

• Clearly define and sign principal routes between the station and principal external destinations, particularly other transport modes.

• Anticipate the need for temporary information by designing temporary information displays to form part of the built design. This avoids clutter and obstruction to passenger movements.

• Where additional customer information is provided, this should be published using Network Rail’s online poster tool to ensure visual consistency.

• Balance the provision of wayfinding signs with retail frontage, advertising and other information to avoid clutter and visual conflict ensuring that essential ‘wayfinding’ signs take precedence over other sign types such as retail branding and advertising.

• Negotiate with commercial owners if access routes to the station are via premises with a non-transport function, so that signing to the station is arranged and kept updated.

Sign location guidance from Network Rail’s Wayfinding Design Guidelines and Specifications


Signs placedperpendicularto main flow

Principal decisionpoints at right anglesto the station axis

Stationaxis

Statutory signs

Statutory signs to meet fire and safety regulations are necessary to warn of dangers and to inform people of emergency procedures. It is essential that an appropriate sign is used in each instance.




U3.3 Provide information and direction beyond the station footprint

Stations form just one part of a passenger’s journey and wayfinding information should be included for those destinations beyond the immediate vicinity of the station. This supports movement between stations and surrounding destinations, including streets, footpaths, bike routes and public spaces, to help ensure continuity of movement, which in turn optimises journey times and manages potential conflicts in pedestrian flows.

• Plan for seamless information provision to allow passengers to see the station and its surrounding urban context as part of one cohesive system.

• Include directions to/from major destinations at station entrances to highlight routes and locations for pedestrians and cyclists.

• Integrate with and adopt consistent terminology and naming from third party wayfinding systems in adjacent areas where possible.

• Facilitate the display of information related to external facilities within the station, including town/city maps or guidance and directional signage consistent with third party local wayfinding strategies where possible.

Local wayfinding located outside Manchester Piccadilly station on passenger desire lines.

Please note: Third party wayfinding supports are not permitted within station thresholds unless covered by the Network Rail Managed Stations Wayfinding Design Guidelines and Specifications.



U3.4 Provide accessible information throughout the station to enhance inclusivity

The provision of accessible information that takes into account passengers with impairments, cultural and/or language differences benefits all users as signs and information will be easier to use and understand.

• Provide optimum legibility and distinctiveness between different design elements by using high contrast colour within a clear hierarchy. Software is available to simulate the effects of colour vision deficiencies. (www.vischeck.com provides one reliable example).

• Consider the use of audio loops, mobile and near-field technologies to provide information for visually impaired users.

• Clearly locate and sign passenger assistance help points for the benefit of all users.

• Design the typeface to be large enough to be read by users with different visual abilities at a range of distances. Though not all type can be made large enough for everyone for reasons of practicality, the majority of users should be catered for.

• Design accessible information for those who have any difficulty with language, whether through learning difficulties or not speaking English as a first language.

• Consider the use of icons, consistent use of naming and language, colour coding and other aspects of intuitive design not based on textual language.

• Locate customer Information Screens (CIS) to avoid glare, especially for partially sighted and visually impaired users.


Relevant Network Rail Guidance:Network Rail Managed Stations Wayfinding Design Guidelines and Specifications

• Consider supplementing CIS with eye-level screens for visually impaired passengers who may find it difficult to read real-time information if it is displayed on screens mounted above eye level.

Distinctive customer help points. London Heathrow, Terminal 5 station.

Care must be taken to ensure that customer information is legible at all times of day and night. London Paddington station.


http://www.vischeck.com

http://www.vischeck.com


U4 Comfort and Attractiveness

Usability

Comfortable, clean, well maintained stations provide an attractive environment that protects users from uncomfortable climatic conditions and unpleasant sensory experiences such polluted air, dirt or noise and provides users with a sense of security and safety. Amenities should be included, where appropriate, to fulfil basic needs and add value to the passenger experience.

The design guidelines for Comfort and Attractiveness are presented in three sections, covering the following topics:

• U4.1: The provision of facilities, amenities and spaces.• U4.2: Guidance for climate protection and control against

unpleasant sensory experiences.• U4.3: Developing space for waiting areas.

Retail and food & beverage amenities include seating located adjacent to, but not obstructing, passenger movement areas in London St Pancras International station.

U4 Comfort and attractiveness


Usability > U4 Comfort and Attractiveness

U4.1 Provide appropriate facilities, amenities and spaces for activities

Stations fulfil different functions according to their size, location and levels of train service. Facilities, amenities and spaces for activities should be appropriate to the station environment and their context.

• Consider the range of users, the daily footfall, the location and context of the station.

• Design public facilities and amenities to include a range of: • shops and retail kiosks;• food and beverage outlets;• telephones;• cash machines;• waiting areas;• left luggage areas;• seats;• luggage trolleys;• public art;• safe, clean and accessible

toilet facilities.

Amenities such as cash machines enhance passenger convenience. Manchester Piccadilly.

Public art adds value to the passenger experience and can help to establish a sense of place. London St Pancras International station.



U4.1 Provide appropriate facilities, amenities and spaces for activities


Amenities are features that enhance passenger comfort, convenience and pleasure and that help to instill passenger confidence. Provision of amenities within and around stations will offer practical advantages for passengers and surrounding communities.




U4.2 Provide effective climate protection, noise mitigation and control against unpleasant sensory experiences

Inclusion of noise mitigation techniques and design of effective climate protection through platform canopies and covered pedestrian routes will ensure that station users are protected from unpleasant experiences and provide a positive ambience and journey experience for all.

• Design of stations should ensure that passengers are protected from extreme weather conditions (wind, rain, snow, sun, and extreme heat and cold).

• Consideration should be given to managed daylighting for regularly occupied spaces to maintain consistent lighting levels and minimise energy consumption.

• Consider sun shades and air conditioning in environments where temperatures may become especially high and there is little natural ventilation.

• Provide lighting levels and fixtures that are functional and aesthetically pleasing; this allows good visibility and additional security.

• Ensure thorough cleaning at regular intervals to eliminate stains and odours, particularly in lifts.

• Mitigate risks arising from climatic conditions (e.g. the impact of summer sun or water on floor surfaces) for reasons of safety and ease of use.

• Minimise background noise levels in selected customer environments to ensure audio announcements are audible and allow passengers to hold comfortable conversations.

• Consider the need for resilience to climatic change and extreme weather conditions.

The passenger waiting area in Manchester Piccadilly station provides effective weather protection and a quiet, pleasant environment.




U4.3 Provide appropriate space for waiting areas

Waiting spaces include formal waiting rooms, station concourses, retail and other amenities. These spaces provide opportunities for seating, standing and leaning. This allows station users to dwell on the station in relative comfort for periods of time.

• Design and locate waiting spaces to be appropriate to the size and function of the station (see U1.1 ).

• Locate waiting spaces for convenient access from station

Relevant Network Rail Guidance:Network Rail Passenger Surveys: Network Rail Key Performance Indicator Study (2009)

Waiting area located conveniently for passenger facilities and amenities. Leeds station.

Customer information screens within the passenger waiting area. Manchester Piccadilly station.

facilities and movement routes.• Include appropriate levels

of seating based on the size and function of the station, anticipating user needs and dwell times.

• Allow for regular maintenance and servicing checks and provide a prompt response.

• Ensure CIS provision within waiting areas.


http://www.passengerfocus.org.uk/news-and-publications/document-search/




The design of station facilities and their immediate surroundings should promote efficient operations and maintenance in an environment that is functional, comfortable and safe. An efficient station design helps deliver a positive passenger experience, minimises delays and disruption, supports modal integration and results in cost savings for asset managers and station operators over the full course of a station’s life.

Planning of station improvement projects should also take account of the ongoing operational requirements of a live rail network and ensure that the integrity of operations and passenger safety are not impaired over the term of the project. Operability includes consideration of service coordination, operating costs, integrated ticketing, maintenance, safety and servicing.

The design theme of Operability is covered by four design principles:

• Station Operations• Management and Maintenance• Safety• Be Secure by Design

Operability


Efficient taxi pick up/ drop off, covered cycle parking and high quality public realm. Clapham Junction station.

O1 Station operations


O1 Station Operations

Operability

Robust and resilient station operations require integrated and optimised operation of fleet, infrastructure and facilities to provide easy access for transport services, seamless movement across modes and effective maintenance. Efficient stations ensure cost savings for operators and owners.

The design guidelines for Station Operations are presented in four sections, covering the following topics:

• O1.1: Providing appropriate spatial capacity for all station functions. • O1.2: Guidance on coordinating modal integration.• O1.3: Providing for efficient service and delivery vehicle access and

storage.• O1.4: The provision of appropriate and convenient facilities for

station staff.



Operability > Station Operations

Spatial provision should provide for efficient station operations at different times of day, week and year - catering for all passenger times over the planned full-life of the building.

O1.1 Provide appropriate spatial capacity for all station functions

Ensuring there is adequate space in a station’s design to meet its current and future needs for transport operations, servicing, commercial facilities, passengers and other users minimises delay and disruption. This enables passengers to move freely and comfortably to/from and around the station, and accommodates future growth in demand.

• Plan to maintain capacity for efficient station operations over the lifetime of station improvement projects (see U1.1 ).

• Plan and design internal passenger and vehicular access routes to cater for predicted activities, movements and capacities now and into the future while avoiding conflict with passengers, transport services and other station users.

• Plan and design for passenger movements and use of facilities, including the capacity of access and exit routes to the station. (Note: peak periods for waiting and queuing may not be the same as those for movement.)

• Plan spatial allocation to provide for the needs of equipment and vehicles such as, bicycles, luggage trolleys and goods vehicles.

• Identify operational thresholds so that boundaries between spaces for different uses are clearly indicated and readily understandable.

• Ensure clarity of spatial priorities to minimise potential conflict between vehicles, cyclists and pedestrians, leading to safe and efficient station operations.

• Ensure appropriate revenue protection and boarding control between transport modes (see O1.2 ).




O1.2 Coordinate modal integration

Efficient connection between transport modes and services is a core function of stations. Design of connections should balance modal and functional priorities, using safe, direct routes that minimise conflict with other passengers or vehicles. Not only does this minimise passenger journey times, but it also ensures efficient connections that allow passengers to make their onward journey as easily and as logically as possible.

• Engage with third party operators of local transport services to ensure spatial provision meets with current and future needs.

• Allow for sufficient capacity to deal with different conditions at different times based on a detailed understanding of the likely future demand for movement between each mode at different times of day.

• Prioritise access by feeder modes such as walk, cycle, taxi or bus, to meet with passenger

and operational needs. This will ensure passengers do not experience undue delay through extended waiting times for connecting services. It will also avoid unnecessary dwell times for operational vehicles.

• Provide for efficient passenger connections that avoid level changes where possible (although it may sometimes be necessary to direct or sign to longer routes for crowd control reasons): • locate connection points

to allow for convenient, accessible and safe access to and from the station;

• avoid conflict with other station operations;

• integrate with the station layout in a way that is easily understood by users.

• Provide coordinated information and signing to and from inter-modal connections.

• Where possible, provide inter-modal movements under cover.

A free shuttle bus service located directly outside Manchester Piccadilly station links passengers with key destinations around Manchester city centre

• Design lighting strategies for inter-modal routes to meet with minimum requirements and integrate with third party lighting systems where routes extend beyond station thresholds.





Design of inter-modal connections should be consistent with any appropriate relevant local authority guidelines and standards. General best practice principles by mode include:

Metro and Underground

• Provide direct, convenient and clearly identified routes to/from metro or Underground station entrances that allow easy and unobstructed access.

• Ensure sufficient capacity is provided to avoid queues impacting on station operations or passenger circulation.

Bus and Tram

• Designs should allow direct, easy and unobstructed access to/from bus or tram stops.

• Street furniture that impedes passenger movement, boarding and alighting should be removed.

• Stops should be sited to minimise walking distance between stations and

interchange stops. Where possible, a stop’s position should allow drivers and prospective passengers to be clearly visible to each other.

• Stop location and design should promote natural surveillance.

• Stops and stations should be well lit to enhance security of staff and passengers.

Cycle

• Provide secure, sheltered, cycle-parking facilities where practical to accommodate anticipated demand.

• Provide clearly and consistently signed cycle parking facilities from all approaches.

• Locate cycle parking on access routes to the station in areas of good, natural surveillance from other station users and passers-by while avoiding conflict with pedestrian movements.

• Ensure cycle access routes and lanes are comfortable to use, with even and well-drained surfaces and places to rest.

Cycle parking and London Cycle Hire located on desire lines adjacent to the station entrance. Waterloo station, London.

• At stations with more than one entrance, cycle parking should be sited to be readily accessible from each entrance with on-street cycle facilities located as close as possible to entrances/exits without significantly obstructing pedestrian movement.

• Integrate cycle routes into the wider network through consultation with local authorities.





Taxis

• Locate taxi ranks in convenient, safe, accessible, well-lit, and well-signed locations. The location of taxi ranks should be clearly identified by prescribed road markings and signing.

• Design taxi ranks so that the system of taxi flows and picking up and setting down points is both clearly understood and ensures efficient local traffic flow.

• Dial-a-ride and community transport facilities should be located conveniently for those with mobility impairments while minimising conflict with core public transport operations and pedestrian movements.

Conveniently located taxi rank provides an attractive, safe and comfortable customer facility. York station.

• Where taxi ranks are provided, there should be near-side loading and facilities should have an effective visual connection from station exits to taxi fronts.

• Consideration should be given to the provision of sheltered waiting facilities at formal taxi ranks.

• Provide for informal drop-off points for private-hire vehicles.




O1.3 Provide for efficient service vehicle and delivery access and storage

Efficient service vehicle and delivery access and storage must be provided to meet a station’s many needs. Appropriate access and storage minimises disruption to passengers and transport operations while ensuring safety, security and environmental responsibilities can be met.

Consider the means by which goods and materials will be delivered to the station and the impact different modes of delivery will have on station activity. Ensure any interference with passengers and day-to-day station operations is kept to a minimum.

• Delivery and service plans should seek to enter into consolidation strategies to minimise the number of servicing and waste collection trips and increase efficiency.

• Freight Quality Partnerships (set up to represent freight users’ needs) should be consulted in the early stages of planning.

• Over-site developments should minimise and control servicing and waste activity from streets in the immediate vicinity of station entrances (see V4.2 ).

• As far as possible, servicing and waste collection activity should occur within the station to minimise impact on surrounding highways and passenger movements. If this is not possible, an on-street location should be identified where pedestrian and highway vehicle impact is minimised.

• Plan for servicing and waste management to be carried out safely, and in an environmentally friendly way. Compliance with all relevant and appropriate local authority guidance should be reflected in the Delivery and Service Plan.

• Recognise that storage facilities will serve different functions and may be required to be located in different areas of the station and design safe, secure storage accordingly.

• Minimise and control the conflict between servicing and waste activity. Coordinate with existing station functions and main passenger movements.

• Remove visual obstructions to provide easily understood movement between facilities and services. In the same way that conflicts can occur when other passengers obstruct pedestrian flows, it is important to remove the conflict between service vehicles and station users.

• Ensure existing on-street servicing activity on key pedestrian routes to and from the station is minimised, or restricted, over the course of peak pedestrian movements to and from the station.




O1.4 Provide appropriate and convenient facilities for station staff

Staff facilities appropriate to the size, location and function of the station enable staff to work effectively within the station environment, optimising day-to-day operations and allowing them to best meet station user requirements.

• Ensure early engagement with the different operators to address any corporate requirements.

• Provide adequate accommodation for station management and operational staff and for station functions including: station control rooms, storage, operational equipment, waste handling, maintenance, etc.

• Ensure design of staff facilities gives due consideration to the health and safety of all staff and contractors spending extended periods working within the station environment.

• Provide adequate lighting and ventilation for those who work in an enclosed space and ensure noise levels fall within safe and comfortable limits.

• Locate operational accommodation away from prime retail space, unless current contracts so dictate. In such cases, liaise with stakeholders to seek beneficial relocation as appropriate.

• Locate customer support staff in facilities that are both visible and readily accessible to passengers.

• Consider the welfare of staff associated with other public transport modes that serve the station, enabling them to make effective use of the station facilities, such as wash and mess rooms.

• Consider consolidation and flexible planning of staff accommodation where appropriate.

Dedicated staff facilities and customer reception, Paddington station, London.



Operability

O2 Management and Maintenance

Effective station management and maintenance practices help sustain the quality of the station environment. This maintains the longevity of the station, while also making it more appealing to users and realising the benefits of whole-life cost assessments.

The design guidelines for Management and Maintenance are presented in four sections, covering the following topics:

• O2.1: Facilitating efficient station maintenance and cleaning.• O2.2: Establishing the rights and responsibilities of stakeholders.• O2.3: The use of robust and resilient materials.• O2.4: Guidance on following an agreed Heritage Asset Management

process.

O2 Management and maintenance


Operability > Management and Maintenance

O2.1 Facilitate efficient station maintenance and cleaning

Station maintenance should be undertaken efficiently and without compromise to train services or customer experience. An efficient maintenance regime minimises impacts on passenger experience, train service reliability and operations.

• Minimum maintenance standards must always be met and exceeded where possible.

• Plan and design to allow for the cleaning and maintenance of public areas without the need for closures or possessions. These activities should have no impact on the day-to-day operation of the station. If this is unavoidable, select self-cleaning materials with long life and low maintenance.

• Use standardised and modular products, and design for simple maintenance and cleaning wherever possible; these should meet with the required functional and aesthetic qualities expected by users.

• Standard and modular products may include:• roof canopies;• floor and wall tiles;• seating and other station

furniture;• PIDs/CCTV systems;• platform gates;• lighting components;• wayfinding signs and

information displays;• handrails;• mobility supports, such as

audio loop systems.• Conceal ducting and cabling

from public view and, where applicable, mark or paint them to match the backgrounds.

• Locate signing and information displays to deter vandalism, and keep them clean and free from graffiti.

• Maximise efficiency of regular maintenance and cleaning regimes. For example, equipment and seating should be designed and placed to allow easy access for cleaning under, over and/or around the feature.

Maintenance walkways facilitate regular maintenance without disrupting station operations, Waterloo station, London.




O2.2 Establish rights and responsibilities of stakeholders

Station facilities are often the responsibility of more than one occupier or owner. Establishing the rights and responsibilities of all stakeholders with regard to maintenance management, servicing and emergency procedures enables coordination of activities to avoid disruption to passengers and services while ensuring consistent standards of condition throughout the station and its adjacent spaces or buildings.

• Engage with local authorities, landowners and other agencies to establish coordinated maintenance and management responsibilities for public spaces and access routes in those areas immediately surrounding stations.

• Agree a maintenance plan that will allow all parties to coordinate activities and ensure consistent standards of condition throughout the station and adjacent locations.

• Promote segregation and recycling of waste materials by entering into consolidation strategies as part of Delivery and Service Plans. This minimises servicing and waste collection trips and increase efficiency.

The passenger experience extends beyond the station threshold, therefore maintaining a quality passenger experience requires coordination of maintenance of surrounding areas as well as within the station building. King’s Cross/ St Pancras International station, London.




O.2.3 Use robust and resilient materials

The use of durable materials that deter vandalism allows for ease of maintenance and repair, helping to discourage repeat crime.

• Ensure a balance between the visual and physical qualities of materials used. While they are to be durable, they should remain pleasing to look at and to use.

• Specify and construct fixtures and fittings to deter vandalism.

• Use materials that are tamper-proof and minimise maintenance or repair.

• Use graffiti-resistant materials or finishes so that it is easy to remove graffiti.

Consider the following before any decision in the choice of materials is made:

• What type of ambience is required at this location?• What is there now and how easy is it to move?• What budget and timescale is available?• What possessions are available and at what cost?• Is it value for money?

• Place lifts in positions of maximum natural surveillance to deter vandalism.

• Use vandal-resistant light fittings by location, type and construction, using recessed and lensed fittings where practical.

Good use of transparency and open spaces to provide for effective natural surveillance. Stratford station.




O2.4 Establish an agreed heritage asset management process

A variety of heritage assets exist across the rail network including buildings, sites and spaces. As such, a heritage asset management process may be necessary to ensure a strategic and systematic approach to the management of existing assets is followed, helping to achieve value for money and safeguarding the special interest of the historic environments (see V2 ).

• Understand the heritage significance of the assets to help inform the design process, establish the extent of repair, alteration, management, re-use or disposal, and help reconcile conservation and other objectives. Consideration should be given to operational requirements, rationalisation of facilities, security and reduced energy use.

Relevant Network Rail Guidance:Network Rail Paddington Station Conservation Plan

• Undertake regular condition surveys to enable work to be planned in a cost-effective way.

• Develop an appropriate preventative maintenance regime and identify costs associated with any loss of assets. Recognise that regular and timely maintenance of an historic building may result in modest cost when considered over the course of its working life.

• Carry out restoration, change of use or partial demolitions in consultation with the appropriate planning and advisory authorities, such as The Railway Heritage Trust, English Heritage, Historic Scotland and CADW.

Sensitive integration of retain within a heritage environment. London Victoria station.



Considered design and maintenance of infrastructure can minimise risk of accidents and conflicts. It can also tackle perceptions of safety and increase passenger satisfaction and enjoyment. Clean, well maintained infrastructure and places create a sense that the environment is safe, controlled, managed and cared for – this reduces the fear of crime or accidents for all users.

The design guidelines for Safety are presented in two sections, covering the following topics:

• O3.1: Ways to design facilities and spaces to minimise the potential for accidents, conflicts and collisions.

• O3.2: Guidance on ensuring full compliance with all statutory emergency requirements.

O3 Safety

Operability

O3 Passenger safety


O3.1 Design facilities and spaces to minimise the potential for accidents to staff and station users

Spaces and facilities should be designed to minimise the potential for accidents, conflicts and collisions. Through effective planning and design this maximises the use of available space, while optimising pedestrian flows by removing potential impediments and maintaining passenger safety.

• Assess the requirements for and appropriate placement of street furniture, seating, bins or other infrastructure, carefully locating them to minimise obstruction and maximise use of the available space.

• Provide for an efficient platform/train interface.

• Design and operate stations to minimise conflict between vehicles and pedestrians, locating parking provision for cycles, private cars, taxis and buses as close as possible to station entrances, in areas clearly marked out. This provision should not impinge on pedestrian movement and

Operability > Safety

should not put pedestrians or other users at risk (see O1.2 ).

• Place ancillary equipment, such as temporary information, air conditioning equipment, cash machines and storage lockers, in areas where they will not: • reduce capacity for

movement; • increase the risk of accidents;• provide concealed spaces

where objects can be hidden.• Introduce low speed limits and

other constraints for vehicles in areas where conflict with pedestrians is highest and consider options for physical restrictions to speed control.

• Use anti-slip flooring that meets with the relevant standards appropriate to location and use.

• Identify all hazards such as platform edges, change of grade at stairs and ramps with high-contrast finishes and uniform lighting to minimise possible risk of accidents.

Placement of temporary information in passenger movement areas can obstruct movement and block sightlines. Paddington station, London.

Good use of tactile and contrasting materials to highlight the platform edge. Liverpool South Parkway station.

O3 Passenger safety


O3.2 Ensure full compliance with all statutory emergency requirements

It is mandatory for station design and operation to comply with all statutory emergency requirements. In the event of any emergency, this ensures that access can be gained by the emergency services and suitable measures can be implemented to prioritise the safety and wellbeing of all station users.

• Consider the application of computer aided modelling software to simulate passenger movements and capacities during an emergency scenario. This will inform the emergency management plan and the scale and capacity of facilities required to meet with emergency evacuations.

• Clearly identify emergency exits to enable station users to move outside quickly and directly.

• Design appropriate acoustics to allow passengers to hear public address announcements on platforms and help control excess noise and vibration.

Operability > Safety

Statutory Requirements

Station facilities must be designed to be fully compliant with all Statutory and Network Rail fire, safety and security requirements, including:

• An appropriate means of escape.

• Emergency lighting with failsafe power.

• Fire alarms and smoke detection.

• Signage and fire fighting equipment.

• A station evacuation plan.Ghost signs, such as this example from London King’s Cross, are blank and only display warning messages in an emergency or to manage temporary crowding.

O3 Passenger safety


Station design must consider public security against a range of different threats, both man-made and natural. All stations face a certain level of risk associated with various threats be they the result of natural events, such as flooding and accidents, or through malicious practices.

The design guidelines for Be Secure by Design are presented in four sections, covering the following topics:

• O4.1: Assessing and minimising the risk of natural or man-made threats through secure and sensitive design.

• O4.2: Ways to follow Crime Prevention through Environmental Design principles.

• O4.3: Designing usable, active and secure facilities and spaces for day and night use.

• O4.4: Guidance on providing for the effective use of CCTV.

Operability

O4 Be Secure by Design

O4 Be secure by design


Operability > Be Secure by Design

O4.1 Assess and minimise risk of malicious practices and natural threats through secure and sensitive design

The risk of malicious practices should be reduced through the design process. Stations all face a certain level of risk, but developing an appropriate secure and sensitive design helps to mitigate the potential loss of life, property or function.

• Ensure early dialogue with crime prevention professionals to help ‘design-in’ a predictive element to schemes which, through application of specialist crime and disorder knowledge, will future-proof projects and prolong scheme benefits for end users.

• Identify the range of threats to the station through a Threat and Vulnerability Risk Assessment. Threats to both the operator and user must be considered.

• Provide sensitive mitigation of vehicular accidents through measures engineered to resist vehicles. These include: setbacks and bollards, planters, incursion barriers and street furniture, and may also include suitably resistant structures and cladding.


Sensitive use of incursion barriers restrict vehicular access while allowing permeable pedestrian access. King’s Cross/ St Pancras International station, London.




O4.2 Prevent crime through environmental design

Deterring crime, disorder or disruption on the rail network, as well as the perception of this occurring, is reassuring to both passengers and employees, limiting the prospect of crime and helping to deal with incidents of antisocial behaviour.

• Design environments with high levels of natural surveillance to encourage people to observe the spaces around them.

• Promote informal or natural surveillance opportunities for station users by creating a visual connection between the street and station facilities.

• Design environments to clearly delineate private space and create a sense of ownership among neighbourhood residents. Design and locate buildings, fencing, pavement, signs, lighting and landscape elements to express ownership.

• Design to minimise the opportunity for the discreet placement of devices.

• Design to avoid or remove blind corners, recesses and other places in which people could hide. (If transparent materials are used to achieve this, they should include manifestations to make them visible to those with visual impairments.)

• Locate lift lobbies, waiting areas and information boards in sites with good natural surveillance or within view of staff locations.

• Locate seating and other features to encourage movement and social interaction, ensuring facilities such as retail units, seating and help points are not positioned in isolated locations.

• Encourage lively station frontages and consider the use of suitable materials such as glass frontages to enhance the building’s visibility.

• Engage with the local community to achieve safe walking/cycling routes in surrounding areas.

• Design high quality streetscapes with wide footways that encourage community use (walking, cycling, wheelchair, etc.).

• Use visible crime prevention elements, such as posting information on security cameras and providing ample and accessible telephones and passenger help points.

Lift entrance located away from core movement in a recess off the platform lacks natural surveillance. Thameslink platform, St Pancras International station, London.




O4.3 Design usable, active and secure facilities and spaces for day and night use

Facilities and spaces in and around stations should be designed to discourage crime throughout the day and night. Crime and the fear of crime can be greatly reduced by removing isolated areas and ensuring locations are well lit and visible to others.

• Consult with Network Rail’s Security Advisors and other crime prevention specialists such as the British Transport Police, TRANSEC or the National Rail Crime Prevention Unit as early as possible in the scheme’s design. This will ensure factors such as lighting, clear lines of sight and CCTV are included in the context of existing crime factors in the vicinity.

• Engage with transport authorities and agencies to coordinate surveillance and activities in adjoining areas.

• Encourage mixed land use – active spaces and frontages will add vitality at different times of the day or night and foster a sense of wellbeing.

• Ensure a visible staff presence to increase the level of natural surveillance and locate staff facilities, ticket offices and control stations in areas where the greatest proportion of the station (or those areas most prone to crime) are directly visible. Duty locations can be varied across the day to reflect concerns over security and staff patrol routes and schedules, and should be devised to offer the greatest coverage.

• Avoid locations that are poorly lit or not directly visible from parts of the station in which staff are present or other passengers are more numerous.

• Design in a way that minimises opportunities for the discrete placement of devices.

A well lit, comfortable environment that includes a mix of retail and food and beverage adds vitality at different times of day and night. Manchester Piccadilly station.

• Optimise the balance between designing out crime and meeting the wider design principles set out in this guidance.




O4.4 Provide for effective use of CCTV

CCTV monitoring provides numerous benefits, including the recording of criminal activity and crowd management in stations. Used overtly, it can also act as a deterrent to crime and reduce fear of crime in stations, on-street and in vehicles.

• Consider discrete placement of cameras within the design, but ensure they remain noticeable. This will provide the user with a feeling of safety and allow for maximum surveillance.

• Allow for clear, uninterrupted views of all public areas, both internal and external to the station. This should include concourse areas, ticket halls and platforms, as well as waiting areas and entrances.

• Adopt CCTV as part of a package of security measures, along with those described elsewhere in this Guide.

Control room located with good views of station activity and monitoring facilities for operations and CCTV.



QualityProviding high quality station environments will improve all aspects of a station user’s experience. Design of high quality facilities is based on a combination of performance, accessibility and function, all of which form an essential part of a user’s experience.

Designing stations to integrate with their surrounding context can create active and vibrant public spaces and can influence how these areas are perceived by passengers, operators and others. Concentrating mixed-use developments within and around rail stations may make them destinations in their own right, presenting opportunities to enhance the user experience, adding value and encouraging investment and socio-economic and physical regeneration in surrounding areas.

The design theme of Quality is covered by four design principles:

• Integration with context• Promote good design• Sense of place• Anticipate passengers’ dynamic, changing needs


Quality

Stations that are well integrated with their surrounding urban context help to create thriving places that are well designed, well built, well run, well connected, and well served, while remaining inclusive, safe and environmentally sensitive. Context-sensitive station design can deliberately shape and animate surrounding public spaces, and in turn, create buildings that are active, integrated fixtures within their local communities.

The design guidelines for Integration with Context are presented in three sections, covering the following topics:

• Q1.1: Designing station facilities to integrate with the surrounding public realm.

• Q1.2: The development of an interconnected network of streets, footpaths, bike routes and public spaces.

• Q1.3: Encouraging provision of active and animated public spaces in surrounding areas.

Q1 Integration with Context

Q1 Integration with context


Blackfriars station provides London’s first cross-Thames station improving access and integration to both sides of the river.



Quality > Integration with Context

Q1.1 Design station facilities to integrate with the public realm

Railway stations and railway lines often form a barrier that results in severance of local communities. As a result, station facilities should be designed to integrate seamlessly with the public realm, including adjacent office buildings and shopping facilities, and to facilitate cross-, as well as through-movement. Creating a strong relationship between the station and its surrounding context delivers a richer and more fulfilling environment, enhancing local character and providing a sense of place for its users.

• Minimise barriers and integrate the station within its context by involving key stakeholders and community groups in the design process from the outset. This should seek to improve integration, support local economic ambitions and identify opportunities for development.

• Design stations and the surrounding public realm to respect the local context and be appropriate to the character and topography of the site in terms of layout, scale, proportion and palette of materials.

• Where possible orientate buildings and maintain or open sightlines to key local landmarks or natural features to aid passenger orientation and wayfinding.

• Integrate lighting, landscaping (hard and soft), and public art to make external spaces pleasant, legible and accessible.

• Adopt relevant local urban design standards to support public-realm improvements in which the station can take a role of civic importance.

• Improve the environment in which the station lies and enhance accessibility of both the station and the surrounding area.

The public realm forms the physical link between stations and their wider communities. In this context, the public realm is defined as the space between and around buildings (including streets) that is accessible and usable by people. Its elements include the spaces, building frontages, landmarks and views that define it, as well as the streets, footways, hard and soft landscaping, water features, lighting and public art which help to animate it. Together, these elements give the public realm its identity, character, value and ‘sense of place’. Importantly, the public realm is also dynamic space, enlivened by movement, activities and people.

Good connectivity between Manchester Piccadilly Station and surrounding developments facilitated by a pedestrian bridge located opposite the station entrance on pedestrian desire line.




Q1.2 Design for an interconnected network of transport, streets, footpaths, bike routes and public spaces

An interconnected network of transport, streets, footpaths, bike routes and public spaces helps connect people with destinations. This enhances accessibility throughout the local area, providing a familiar and consistent network to encourage users to travel by more sustainable transport modes (see O1.2 ).

• Design high quality pedestrian access routes to stations with efficient lighting, direct connections and clear sightlines.

• Integrate with local wayfinding systems.

• Prioritise pedestrian movements in surrounding streets through traffic calming and pedestrian priority measures, such as level surfacing, speed tables and landscaping, to create spaces with a human scale.

• Plan and design cycle access routes with convenient cycle parking to connect with surrounding cycle networks.

• Address congestion relief in streets and squares: improve pedestrian walk times around the station by designing new routes.

• Design pedestrian and cycleway lighting strategies that are sensitive to the station’s urban context, with reasonable use of outdoor lighting for night time safety, security, activity and commerce.

Direct cycle access to Liverpool South Parkway




Q1.3 Encourage provision of active and animated public spaces in surrounding areas

Sensitive integration of the public realm enhances the local character and encourages natural surveillance and animation around stations. It can help bring a station to life, encouraging vibrancy throughout the area by providing attractive and welcoming links between internal and external spaces while fostering a sense of place and deterring antisocial behaviour.

• Engage with local communities to establish local needs and ensure that station design proposals are in social, physical and functional accord with their local community context.

• Consider how best to reflect the history and cultural diversity of the station and its area.

• Ensure sensitive integration of commercial frontages that line station movement spaces and zones. This will give ‘life’ to the station and provide an attractive, welcoming link between internal and external spaces.

• Balance the provision of retail frontage with signing, advertising and information to avoid visual clutter.

• Design surface materials and street furniture so they play a significant role in creating attractive spaces that reflect their local character and encourage people to linger (see Q2.3 ).

• Consider introducing public art and natural features, such as tree planting. These can make stations more attractive public places, provide natural shade and make waiting or transferring between modes more enjoyable.

• Ensure none of the features obstruct pedestrian routes or provide screens for anti-social activities.

• Take advantage of opportunities to aesthetically enhance necessary and functional architectural and structural spaces and elements. Consider colour, texture and the rhythm of all elements.

• Include feature lighting as appropriate to enhance sense of place, public art and the overall passenger experience.

Landscaping, water features, high quality street furniture and retail integrated within the heritage frontage creates a comfortable and welcoming pedestrian environment. Sheffield station.



Quality

Worldwide experience demonstrates that public transport systems that are user-friendly, are of high quality and which ‘put the passenger first’, are able to attract significantly wider economic benefits and revenues than less well focused or integrated systems. This benefits operators and passengers, as well as the surrounding communities, developments and environment.

The design guidelines for Promote Good Design are presented in three sections, covering the following topics:

• Q2.1: Designing for appropriate scale, massing and orientation of buildings and spaces.

• Q2.2: Designing welcoming station environments where people want to work, shop and travel.

• Q2.3: Guidance on using high quality materials and finishes appropriate to station context and function.

Q2 Promote Good Design

Q2 Promote good design


Quality > Promote Good Design

Q2.1 Consider scale, massing and orientation of buildings and spaces

Scale, massing and orientation of buildings and spaces should be appropriate to a station’s context and function. The relationships between the elements of the built design are complex; to ensure the future success of station design it is important that any development should be planned to enable densities to change in response to need.

• Consider the surrounding built form – particularly the height and massing of properties, as well as the impact of any overlooking tall buildings.

• Where possible, orientate buildings to relate to local networks and destinations, open up views and sightlines, and maximise opportunities to optimise energy consumption (e.g. by making the most of natural daylight or ventilation) without compromising operational efficiency or the passenger experience.

• Review the densities of the surrounding buildings and the impact any new development may have on the context and function of the station.

• Designs should meet with the need of different development types should the station form part of wider development proposals.

The redesign of Birmingham New Street Station responds closely and positively to its urban context to create an exciting and unique architectural form




Q2.2 Design station environments and amenities as welcoming places where people want to travel, shop and work

Station environments and amenities should be designed as welcoming places where people want to travel, shop and work. A station fulfils a different function for each user so it is important to minimise any conflict between these functions. This can be achieved by the efficient use of space and operations.

• Identify the zones and nature of the commercial environment for optimum integration into the station environment.

• Recognise the need for ‘right sizing’ and acknowledge that the balance of functions and facilities will be different for each location.

• Quantify the patterns of movement between each function and how these change across a day or a week. Understand the characteristics of the people making these movements.

• Design architectural finishes for consistency throughout the station so that passengers do not experience ‘tidemarks’ as they pass between areas controlled by different operators.

• Promote a modern business image by incorporating materials that are hard wearing, easily cleaned, economically maintained and that are sympathetic to the existing fabric of the structure (see Q2.3 ).

• Address the needs of those operating transport and other services, such as provision of suitable staff facilities (see O1.4

).• Consider the introduction of

public art and natural features (see Q3.3 ).

Retail, food and beverage zones are integrated within the built design in London St Pancras International station.




Q2.3 Use high quality materials and finishes appropriate to station context and function

Materials should always be fit for purpose and meet with all health and safety requirements. High quality materials that provide an attractive appearance and meet with functional requirements should be used when possible. High quality investment at locations that support high volume station usage are both affordable and cost-effective and can significantly enhance the function, performance and aesthetic of a station.

Designers should consider whole-life costs when specifying high quality materials, recognising that high quality design does not need to cost more.

• Ensure a sustainable balance between function, performance, sustainability and cost efficiency, as well as ease of use, quality of appearance and an attractive aesthetic.

• Ensure that the design is both achievable and deliverable and sits within a framework of sound management and governance. This will ensure quality is retained at an affordable cost.

• Materials should be appropriate to the local context and enhance the character and quality of the station and its functions.

• Where performance is not hampered, the designer should seek to utilise wholly or partially recycled materials that are responsibly sourced.

• Use a range of materials to reflect different functions that visually support the architecture they relate to and that are safe in fire scenarios.

• Consider the use of recycled or partially recycled materials, or materials derived locally from sustainable sources.

A modular station approach was adopted at Corby with locally selected materials, sustainable components and high quality public realm design.





• Optimise use of standardised components for core station elements to provide a consistent passenger experience that meets with the required functional and aesthetic qualities. Standard and modular products may include: • roof canopies;• floor and wall tiles;• seating and other station

furniture;• PIDs/CCTV systems, platform

gates;• lighting components;• advertising displays; • signs and information

displays;• handrails;• mobility supports, such as

audio loop systems.

• Promote a modern business image by incorporating materials that are hard wearing, easily cleaned, economically maintained and that are sympathetic to the existing fabric of the structure.

• Apply wall and, where appropriate, floor materials that combine a high light reflectance with a matt finish (avoiding high gloss reflective surfaces) to improve brightness and light/colour diffusion, minimise light absorption, reduce the quantity of required lighting and conserve energy.

A range of modular components provides flexibility to cater for differing locations and passenger needs. Manchester Piccadilly station.



Transparency and uncluttered spaces at London Bridge station entrance provides a strong visual connection with the surrounding area.

Q3 Sense of Place


Quality

A sense of place refers to a characteristic that some geographic places have and others do not, but to which an individual can relate; it also refers to a feeling or perception held by people through belonging or attachment.

Stations and the urban environment within which they sit mean many different things to many different users. It is important that good design harnesses these perceptions to maintain and ultimately enhance the area to instill a positive sense of place for all.

The design guidelines for Sense of Place are presented in three sections, covering the following topics:

• Q3.1: Locating and designing stations to promote a positive image and identity.

• Q3.2: Considering landmark design where demand or status provides justification.

• Q3.3: Adding value through landscaping and public art.

Q3 Sense of Place

Q3 Sense of Place


Quality > Sense of Place

Q3.1 Locate and design stations to promote a positive image and identity while respecting their local context

Station planning and design should give consideration to the local context of the station in order to promote a positive image and identity. A station design that responds to local characteristics and identity will provide added value to both the station and the surrounding area, encouraging users to travel, work in and visit the location.

• Understand the location and function of a station, and how best it should be placed.

• Ensure that facilities are right sized and appropriate for the context, function and use of the station.

• Reflect the history and cultural diversity of station locations, linking stations to their local communities.

• Identify qualities and characteristics of local architecture and the public realm that should be reflected in station design.

The challenges and value of heritage and legacy

While the heritage aspect of a station can add value to the network and the local environment through its architectural qualities and its potential to provide long term cost savings through sensitive design – the inherited infrastructure across the network offers many challenges that

need to be faced realistically in order to allow continued use in modern operational terms.

Care is needed throughout the design process to ensure that where practical, a balance is struck between retention of notable or memorable characteristics in a way that is both cost effective and sensitive to the original design. There is a need to avoid short-term

solutions that are likely to cause long-term damage.

Regardless of the approach, the design should ensure a full life expectancy and deliver intrinsic value. This will bring credit to the owners and occupiers and support the building of a heritage for the future (see O2.4 ).

Sensitive integration of new structures with heritage components. Manchester Piccadilly station.

Renovated heritage facade and sympathetic treatment of the surrounding public space. London, Fenchurch Street station.

Q3 Sense of Place




Where there is social, economic and environmental justification, distinctive, landmark design may be considered. This can add value and improve sense of place. Distinctive design can help encourage businesses to locate there, boost tourism and encourage visitors, all of which has a positive effect on the local economy.

• Designs should promote a distinctive identity that respects the local context while conforming to network-wide standards referred to within this Guide.

• Consider distinctive and contemporary design solutions that enhance local heritage and architectural styles through scale, massing, location and colour rather than replicating existing building forms.

• Employ imaginative and innovative design where local architecture is indistinct or of poor quality – this improves the visual and functional quality of the local area.

• A high quality finish can provide added value in landmark projects by helping to communicate a sense of place or create a station that can become a destination in its own right adding social, economic and environmental value, and instiling a sense of civic pride in those who visit and use it.

Distinctive, landmark design at St Helens station.

Q3 Sense of Place




Integrating landscape elements and public art in the spaces surrounding stations creates added value. Giving wider consideration to a station’s character and identity enhances the quality of the station and its facilities.

• Consider developing a framework to engage with local stakeholders at the outset of a project.

• Consider opportunities for hard and soft landscaping within and around stations to provide for the incorporation of public art, for example:• sculpture;• murals and displays;• water features and fountains;• lighting features and displays;• banners, flags, mobiles and

suspended features.

• Consider use of materials for public art works and features that they are durable, safe, attractive and consistent with local streetscape maintenance requirements.

• Consider introducing natural features in surrounding areas, such as tree planting to provide natural shade and make waiting or transferring between non-rail modes more enjoyable. Due regard should be given to safety risks to passengers and the operational impacts that may arise as a result at different times of the year (e.g. fallen leaves in autumn).

High quality public realm and introduction of natural features surrounding Sheffield station.

Renovated stained glass windows. Glasgow Central station.

Q3 Sense of Place




Living Wall, Sunderland Station. Designed by Jason Bruges Studio, London.

A screen made from more than 10,000 LED-lit glass blocks runs along the length of platform 5. Shadowy figures based on local people are set in motion when a train arrives.

Landscaping and public art around Liverpool South Parkway station.

Q3 Sense of Place


Quality

Design needs to be dynamic, with enough flexibility to ensure it is able to anticipate and adapt to the changing needs of passengers over time. This does not simply mean ensuring there is sufficient capacity provision or ensuring that there are sufficient facilities available – it is also about the need to provide the right mix of facilities and services that support the needs of the users of the station and the local community.

The design guidelines for Anticipate Passengers’ Dynamic, Changing Needs are presented in one section, covering the following topic:

• Q4.1: Ways to design responsive and flexible places.

Q4 Anticipate Passengers’ Dynamic, Changing Needs

Q4 Bookmark

Q4 Anticipate passengers’ dynamic changing needs


Quality > Anticipate Passengers’ Dynamic, Changing Needs

Q4.1 Design responsive and flexible places

Stations should be responsive, resilient and flexible. Their use and operations will continually change through time so the buildings and fabric must be able to adapt to change without detriment to the overall functionality. Provision for expansion should be adequate but not excessive and should seek to minimise any resource waste during design and construction.

• Ensure new building design and open spaces allow for flexibility in future layout and spatial arrangements to minimise constraints to future use and demand, including:• cycling;• revenue protection.

• Allow for passive provision of facilities so as not to negate any future station enhancement.

• Consider how areas that are external to the station may change and how these changes may affect station operations.

• Recognise within the design those elements most susceptible to change and the timescales within which this might happen. This includes:• spatial planning for

passenger movement and waiting areas;

• spatial planning for enhanced facilities such as retail and commercial activity;

• ticket offices and machines;• passenger information

systems;• inter-modal transfers and

access routes;• platforms and canopies.


Q4 Anticipate passengers’ dynamic changing needs


ValueIt is important to create social, economic and environmental value and instill a sense of civic pride and ownership in those who use the rail network and those who encounter it. Sustainable design in landscaping, infrastructure, materials and land use designations also enables efficient use of space and resources.

The design theme of Value is covered by four design principles:

• Whole life costs• Positive economic, social and environmental impact• Respect of site ecology• Catalyst for regeneration


Value

Whole life costs go beyond the initial cost of construction and will comprise ongoing maintenance and operational costs for the life of the infrastructure. To evaluate the viability and minimise the whole life costs of any station scheme it is necessary to ensure that all costs are considered and that value for money can be achieved beyond the initial design and construction period.

The design guidelines for Whole-Life Costs are presented in two sections, covering the following topics:

• V1.1: Ways to establish whole-life costs and the constituent life-cycle costs.

• V1.2: Optimising functionality of built design.

V1 Whole-Life Costs

The whole-life cost approach is rapidly becoming the standard method for the long-term cost appraisal of buildings and civil infrastructure projects. It is an essential tool for those involved in the design, construction, operation and risk analysis of construction projects.

Network Rail continues to determine whole life cost definitions in the context of its changing operational demands.

V1 Whole-life costs


Value > Whole-Life Cost

V1.1 Whole-life and life-cycle costs

Consideration of all phases of a station’s life, from design and procurement through operation and end-of-life salvage, establishes the most effective allocation of fiscal resources.

• Conduct Life Cycle Cost Analysis (LCCA) to better understand whole-project costs and assess the relative merits of design options.

• Perform systematic cost analysis during each design phase.

• Size, orient and design stations to optimise energy efficiency without compromising operational efficiency or the passenger experience.

• Prioritise allocation of capital finance to maximise efficiency and return on investment over the life of the project and beyond.

• Minimise site disturbance and associated costs by working within existing station and site configurations to the greatest extent possible.

• Consider strategies for material reuse in the design, construction and future dismantling of stations.

• Procure system-wide components, where applicable, to achieve economies of scale.

• Ensure long-term commitment from the community and the local authority.

• Define appropriate delivery mechanisms as part of the design process.

PRODUCTION OF:

raw materials, chemicals,

components, etc.

PACKING, TRANSPORTATION,

UNPACKINGIN-USE PERIOD

RE-USE AND RECYCLING

RAW MATERIALS

EXTRACTION

PRODUCTION

Energy Waste Emissions


Landfill /Incineration Re-use of parts in production

Re-use


Energy Waste EmissionsEnergy Waste Emissions


Life-Cycle Cost Analysis

V1 Whole-life costs


Value > Whole-Life Cost

V1.2 Optimise functionality of built design

Optimising functionality of a station design minimises operational costs and waste, and the consumption of natural resources. This can deliver significant cost and energy savings over the life of the building and provide an economic return.

• Ensure facilities are ‘right sized’ and appropriate to the function, scale and context of the station (see U1.1 ).

• Allow efficient and effective optimisation of staff arrangements (see O1.4 ).

• Plan and design building configuration and specification of materials and equipment to minimise operational and maintenance costs (see O2.1

). • Design to integrate managed

daylight wherever possible.• Detail for weather resistance

and protection against corrosion between dissimilar materials.

• Design for ease of access for replacement, repair and cleaning of building fixtures and components with minimal or no impact on station operations, passengers or other users.

• Give preference to simple and transparent systems, avoiding overly complex maintenance.

• Design for preventative versus corrective maintenance and ensure a maintenance strategy is factored into the design development.

• Specify energy-efficient fixtures and HVAC equipment to reduce energy consumption and costs.

• Minimise energy use and costs through consideration of passive environmental design strategies (see V2 ).

Relevant Network Rail Guidance:Network Rail Investment in Stations – A Guide for Promoters and Developers

Managed daylighting can reduce energy consumption and whole-life costs. Edinburgh Park station.

V1 Whole-life costs

http://www.networkrail.co.uk/browse%20documents/rus%20documents/route%20utilisation%20strategies/network/working%20group%202%20-%20stations/investmentinstations.pdf




Value

Well-designed places can have a positive impact on the environment and deliver a wide range of sustainable benefits (such as low carbon emissions). This will generate a value to society, and whole-life cost savings to the customer.

The design guidelines for Positive Economic, Social and Environmental Impact are presented in three sections, covering the following topics:

• V2.1: Guidance on applying best practice environmental design standards.

• V2.2: Minimising energy use and explore sustainable energy sources.• V2.3: The consideration of embodied energy and ease of

maintenance.

V2 Positive Economic, Social and Environmental Impact

Network Rail supports the development and inclusion of sustainable station design features and is committed to:

• Achieving sustainable consumption and production.

• Protecting natural resources.

• Improving energy efficiency and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.

• Improving the economic value of the existing railway.

• Encouraging people to use the railway.



Value > Positive Economic, Social and Environmental Impact

V2.1 Apply environmental design best practice

The application of best practice standards such as BREEAM or CEEQUAL , enables developers and designers to qualify the environmental credentials of buildings to planners and clients and increases the acceptability of a scheme to key stakeholders.

• Employ internationally recognised rating systems such as BREEAM to provide a recognised benchmark to address wide-ranging economic, social, environmental and broader sustainability issues.

• Build on these standards to recognise the wider role of a station in terms of energy, cost savings and passenger benefits, and therefore act as a catalyst for modal shift.

• Engage with stakeholders to understand how sustainability can be integrated into the overall design process - particularly in respect of early developments.

V2.2 Minimise energy use and explore sustainable energy sources

On-site energy conservation/generation, responsibly sourced and manufactured materials and the use of sustainable energy sources provide long-term environmental benefits and can also provide cost-effective design solutions. It is necessary to understand the full sustainability equation when considering the application of micro-generation techniques and not just the energy generating abilities.

• Maximise the use of building design techniques and technologies to benefit from and, where possible, influence local environmental conditions.

• Harness and reuse solar, wind, daylight and water power where appropriate.

• Use passive heating and cooling strategies, including solar shading and window treatment to reduce cooling and heating loads where applicable.

• Passive measures such as increasing a building’s insulation should take priority over active or mechanical solutions.

• Consider the use of recycled heat from cooling systems.

• Maximise the use of controlled daylight to reduce the demand for artificial illumination.

• Use intelligent control systems to optimise energy use where appropriate (e.g. light sensors for infrequently used areas and escalator motion sensors).

• Provide low-energy lighting to reduce energy consumption, heat emissions and demand on air-conditioning systems.

• Use highly light-reflective materials in matt finishes (avoiding high-gloss reflective surfaces) to improve brightness and light/colour diffusion, minimise light absorption, reduce the quantity of required lighting and conserve energy.

• Conserve existing energy provision as a priority and then generate benign forms of energy where there is a requirement for more than is already provided.

• Consider the performance of both materials and composite construction when developing and evaluating design solutions.

• Consider appropriate levels of insulation of indoor/heated areas.

• Consider the use of recycled or partially recycled materials, or materials derived locally from sustainable sources.


http://www.breeam.org/

http://www.ceequal.com/


V2.3 Consider embodied energy and ease of maintenance

Thoughtful design from sourcing to disposal can mitigate uncertainty over costs associated with materials, limit environmental impacts, and allow for positive reuse and regeneration of building components.

• Consider embodied energy when evaluating alternative energy systems and infrastructure.

• Select materials with environmentally and economically superior asset lives. Any adverse environmental impacts should be avoided and the design should ensure that the quality of the user experience is enhanced.

• Ensure materials selected for either new builds or upgrades are robust and maintenance free as far as possible. Every effort should be made to avoid resources that require complicated repair, removal or disposal.


• Design facilities to allow for an extended lifespan by ensuring they are both durable and flexible enough to anticipate and accommodate demand and change.

• Design and select building components to be salvageable or capable of disassembly to the greatest extent possible, minimising disposal costs and materials.

• Understand the value of the embodied energy in existing building stock when considering or planning alterations, extensions or major works.

When considering sustainable design remember the four ‘R’s:

• Reduce• Re-use• Recycle• Recover

And take account of Government initiatives such as WRAP (Waste Recovery Action Programme) .

Design of Newport station included consideration of environmental best practice to deliver whole-life cost savings and passenger benefits.V2 Positive economic, social

and environmental impact

http://www.wrap.org.uk/

http://www.wrap.org.uk/


Well thought out station design strategies can contribute to the overall ecological balance of the network as well as mitigating the negative effects of construction on natural systems. Environmentally responsible design can help to minimise disruption to air, water, soil and ecosystems, contributing to the long-term health of the natural environment.

The design guidelines for Respect and Conserve Natural Systems are presented in two sections, covering the following topics:

• V3.1: Designing landscapes to preserve and restore natural habitats.• V3.2: Ways to maintain and improve soil, water quality and use.


V3 Respect and Conserve Natural Systems

V3 Respect and conserve natural systems


V3.1 Design landscapes to preserve and restore natural habitats

The value of an ecological landscape asset can easily be degraded. This is particularly important for Network Rail as many of its stations have existed for generations and are now part of the local ecology.

• Undertake a review of the station development to confirm the existence of protected species.

• Subject to operational constraints, design landscapes to preserve and restore natural habitats.

Value > Respect and Conserve Natural Systems

V3.2 Maintain and improve soil, water quality and use

Station construction and operations should control the quality of site water and run off against contamination and capture storm water through intelligent design.

• Design to protect site water quality against contamination or erosion during construction and operations.

• Use integrated building and landscape design strategies to manage rainwater on site by minimising impervious surfaces and maximising natural permeability and the filtration of contaminants.

• Where appropriate, maintain and improve the quality of soil and water for soft landscaping. Consideration should be given to use of treatments such as bioremediation and UV filtration.Relevant Network Rail

Guidance:Network Rail Sustainability Policy

• Design landscaped areas with appropriate site vegetation to control erosion and minimise the need for additional irrigation.

• Ensure the protection of existing vegetation, including trees and bushes, and use native or adopted vegetation to enhance site ecology.

• Design interior and exterior lighting strategies to minimise light pollution for adjacent properties, nocturnal ecosystems and dark sky conditions.

The roof of Liverpool South Parkway has been designed to facilitate efficient storm water harvesting.

• Design canopies and other station infrastructure using storm water capture and water harvesting techniques in accordance with an overall water management strategy.

• Specify efficient plumbing fixtures to minimise water usage.

V3 Respect and conserve natural systems

http://www.networkrail.co.uk/documents/Community%20and%20Environment/5911_Network%20Rail%20Sustainability%20Policy.pdf


Value

Stations can act as a catalyst for regeneration. Long-term planning can stimulate the development of sustainable economies that provide long-term benefits and regenerative success.

The design guidelines for Act as a Catalyst for Regeneration are presented in three sections, covering the following topics:

• V4.1: Optimising revenue generating opportunities.• V4.2: Ensuring integrated development.

V4 Act as a Catalyst for Regeneration

V4 Act as a catalyst for regeneration


V4.1 Optimise revenue generating opportunities

Revenue generating opportunities (e.g. retail, office, advertising and residential) can create significant additional funding streams and provide significant revenues to support delivery and operational costs. Implementation of such opportunities should be designed to complement rather than compromise station operations and core passenger functions.

• Identify commercial development opportunities based on local context, demand and function.

• Design commercial opportunities on a scale that is capable of supporting the desired station improvements.

• Locate commercial opportunities adjacent to, but not interfering with, key pedestrian routes to create active spaces and achieve a complementary outcome for all parties.

Value > Act as a Catalyst for Regeneration

• Where appropriate, consider opportunities to provide customer car parking.

• Design retail spaces to integrate architecturally and functionally within station interiors and exteriors.

• Provide commercial activity in a way that doesn’t outweigh a station’s core functional need for transport operations and efficient passenger movements but still manages to positively enhance the passenger experience.

• Consider commercial opening hours so that shops can remain open as long as commercial constraints allow. This will provide passive surveillance and support passenger safety.

• Place advertising carefully so as not to dominate a passenger’s line of vision or cover up or distract from wayfinding or passenger information.

• Integrate retail signing and frontages sensitively within the built environment to avoid unnecessary obstruction to passenger information, movement or wayfinding.

Balanced integration of retail with advertising and wayfinding within a heritage environment. Glasgow Central station.

Retail signing conflicts with passenger wayfinding. Paddington station, London.



V4.2 Integrated developments

Opportunities to integrate developments above, under, around and within stations provide additional revenue streams. To maintain integrity it is important that operational systems for the station and any associated developments remain independent. Consistency of maintenance, however, is an important consideration for a seamless passenger experience.

• Prioritise the location of station facilities to encourage future development, create active spaces and stimulate growth without compromise to core passenger functions.

• Provide for additional pedestrian flows resulting from development proposals into and out of the station to ensure station operations, flows and capacities are maintained or enhanced.

Value > Act as a Catalyst for Regeneration

• Ensure the station is able to operate independently from integrated commercial or residential properties.

• Ensure maintenance, repair and future enhancements to each property can be undertaken without detrimental impact on the fabric or performance of the other buildings.

• Ensure retail or other branding is integrated within the aesthetic and architectural fabric of the building.

• Retain the ability to inspect and maintain each property individually and without interference.

• Adequately separate utility, servicing and access requirements.

Integration of over-station development and high quality urban realm, Cannon Street station, London.



(see E2.4 ).

(see E2.4 ).

AppendixSection C


Glossary of TermsATG – Automated Ticket GatesAPM – Association for Project ManagementATOC – Association of Transport Operating CompaniesBREEAM – Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment MethodBTP – British Transport PoliceCABE – Commission for Architecture and the Built EnvironmentCCTV – Closed Circuit TelevisionCEEQUAL - Civil Engineering Environmental Quality Assessment and Award SchemeCIS – Customer Information ScreensCPtED – Crime Prevention through Environmental DesignDfT – Department for TransportDPTAC – Disabled Persons Transport Advisory CommitteeGRIP – Governance of Railway Investment Projects

HVAC – Heating Ventilation and Air ConditioningLCCA – Life Cycle Cost AnalysisLEED – Leadership in Energy and Environmental DesignOGC – Office of Government and CommercePIDs – Passenger Information DisplaysPTE – Passenger Transport ExecutivesRUS – Route Utilisation StrategyTfL – Transport for LondonTOC – Train Operating CompanyTS – Transport ScotlandTVM – Ticket Vending MachineRFID – Radio Frequency Identification

Glossary of Terms


Relevant Reference DocumentsA wide range of Network Rail and industry-wide documents and guidance notes were used in compiling this Guide.

Below is a list of the most relevant standards and guidance documents referenced within this Guide. These documents are drawn from a range of sources and have been used in the development of this Guide. The list is not intended to be exhaustive but provide the user of this Guide with a sound basis upon which to develop any station scheme.

Relevant Network Rail Standards and Guidance documents

• Network Rail Operational Property Design and Construction Handbook

• Network Rail Managed Stations Wayfinding and Design Guidelines and Specifications

• Network Rail Sustainability Policy

• Network Rail Environmental Policy

• Network Rail Investment in Stations – A Guide for Promoters and Developers

• Network Rail Passenger Surveys: Network Rail Key Performance Indicator Study (2009)

• Network Rail Stations Strategy and Plan for CP4

• Network Rail Stations RUS• Network Rail Stations Capacity

Assessment Guidance

• GIRT 7016 RSSB Group Standards

Relevant Reference Documents















Other useful documents

• DfT Accessible Train Station Design for Disabled People: A Code of Practice (2010)

• DfT Better Rail Stations Report• DfT Secure Stations Scheme –

Guideline 8: Crime Reduction Strategy

• DfT The Stern Review on the Economics of Climate Change

• DfT The Eddington Transport Study: Transport’s Role in Sustaining the UK’s Productivity and Competitiveness

• DfT National Station Improvement Programme – Final Report

• DfT WebTag Guidance• DfT TRANSEC Compliance

Framework• Railway Safety and Standards

Board – Group Standards • TfL Interchange Best Practice

Guidelines• TfL Interchange Signs

Standards

• TfL Cycle Parking Standards• TfL Streetscape Guidance for

the Transport for London Road Network (TLRN)

• London Underground Limited Station Planning Standards and Guidelines

• London Cycle Design Standards• London Travel Watch Station

Standards Report• CABE Building for Life: Great

Places to Live• CABE Delivering Quality Places• CABE The Value of Urban

Design• CABE Urban Design Principles• DPTAC – Disabled Persons

Protection Policies• English Heritage Managing

Heritage Assets• English Heritage Protocol for

the Care of the Government Historic Estate (2009)

• ACPO Secured by Design Principles (2004)

• BRE Environmental Assessment Method, BRE Global

• CEEQUAL The Assessment and Awards Scheme for Improving Sustainability in Civil Engineering and the Public Realm

• HMRI Guidance Safety Principles and Guidance Part B Station

• The Equality Act 2010• The Town and Country Planning

Act – Permitted Development Rights

• Railway Safety Principles and Guidance

• PRM TSI• Railway Safety and Standards

Board – A Guide to RSSB• Home Office - Working Together

to Protect Crowded Places (2010)

• British Standards• Relevant TOC Standards

• Passenger surveys available from the websites of:• PTEG• London Travel Watch • Passenger Focus






The Guide allows for flexibility of application but complements the Network Rail design process throughout the project lifecycle. It should be used at each Design Review gateway to ensure the shared objectives and aspirations of the design continue to be met.

There will invariably be a strong emphasis on the use of the Guide during the early inception phases as it will help to inform the output specification and the scope of works. There will also be a need for the Guide to be used in support of option assessment during both feasibility and option development stages. This will continue to ensure optimal solutions are adopted. It can also form the basis of post-implementation monitoring.

Consider themes and principles: Location, Context, Vision, Functionality, Aesthetics,

Regulatory

Conceptual / Preliminary Design

Stage 2: Ensuring design Meets requirement of the brief

Is the design: Functional, A�ordable, Deliverable and

Maintainable?

Stage 3: Monitoring and Evaluating

Scheme design

Implementation

Scheme hand back (7)

Project Close (8)

Output Definition (1)

Pre-Feasibility (2)

Option Selection (3)

Single Option Development (4)

Construction Test and Commission (6)

DESIGN REVIEW

DESIGN REVIEW

DESIGN REVIEW

DESIGN REVIEW

Application of the Design Guide Design Process Network Rail Project Development GRIP

Development of Brief

Detailed Design Detailed Design (5)Ensuring design Meets Requirement of the Brief

Figure A1: Relationship between the Design Guide and the Design Process

Network Rail Investment Process




Stage 1: Developing the brief

The brief should draw on the themes and principles identified within this Guide while recognising that delivery partners and stakeholder organisations may have differing objectives and priorities. Having said that, the organisations may share more common objectives than they think, particularly in terms of how these support wider policy goals such as economic growth, environmental protection, social inclusion and socio-economic and physical regeneration. Agreeing shared objectives that reflect the considerations of this Guide plays an important role in shaping the design of the planned changes.

The brief needs to be clear, concise and logical, identifying desired goals and outcomes while drawing a balance between being over-prescriptive or vague. Passengers and their environment should be placed at the forefront of the design and both the process and the brief should take

account of location and context, as well as of any overarching vision, objectives and principles. This is in addition to regulatory, functional and aesthetic criteria.

The brief should consider:

• The Location: giving consideration to the specific characteristics, qualities and identity of the location and what the key success factors for successful design development.

• The Context: exploring the opportunities to obtain seamless integration with, or alongside, the surrounding public realm.

• Understanding Drivers for Change: evaluating the reasons as to why any changes are to be made.

• The Vision: setting out the corporate or project vision or mission statement that has been developed, and how should this be reflected in the design output.

• Overarching planning and design principles: the brief should contain all relevant planning and design principles and criteria, which will be required to be followed or taken into account. Equally the designer/planner may wish to identify additional or modified criteria such as:• Regulatory criteria:

identifying relevant statutory and customary planning and design regulations, standards and specifications which will apply to the project.

• Functional criteria: Setting out operational and functional criteria for the organisation, arrangement and outcome of the project, suggesting additional or alternative parameters where appropriate.

• Aesthetic aims: identifying the required nature and quality of the project outcomes.




Stage 2: Ensuring that the design meets the terms set out within the brief

As the project progresses, the scheme will be developed through the different design stages. There are a number of breakpoints at key stages during the project lifecycle that provide the opportunity to undertake two forms of related Design Review. Each Review will assess progress of the scheme against the brief and the design framework, and against the overarching objectives for the project as follows:

• A process of review of the outputs between the promoter and the designer/planner. This ensures the requirements of the brief are being met and allows an opportunity to change direction or emphasis should the need arise, seeking to improve design as a result.

• A process of review with internal and external stakeholders (potentially including community and public interest groups where appropriate) to ensure that their views are being considered.

This approach minimises the risk of abortive work and seeks to maintain stakeholder support throughout the process.

This Guide continues to play an important role in helping to assess and guide any scheme changes that may be necessary during the later stages of a project and to ensure a customer focus is retained. The Guide also has a role post-delivery, as an evaluation tool to help review station performance.

Stage 3: Monitoring and evaluating scheme designs

It is important to consider how post-delivery evaluation can inform station design through performance monitoring and lessons learnt.

With all organisations involved working together to identify common inputs into the evaluation process – the basis of which forms Stage 1 of the design process – outputs should be cross-referenced against the Guide framework and the agreed scheme objectives.

Undertaking periodic surveys of customer satisfaction on stations can provide useful insight, informing both Managers and Design teams on how customer perceptions have changed over time. It can help establish those areas that need greatest attention during design development.

Both the survey findings and the lessons learnt can be disseminated to other project teams to inform them of key issues, constraints or solutions that they may wish to consider. In this way, consistency can be maximised and resources shared. The Guide remains a living document and all evolving good practice will be incorporated within this document in the future.



Evaluation FrameworkThe example evaluation framework shown on the following pages offers a systematic approach to evaluation using a ‘traffic light’ system to rate each design principle as ‘green’, ‘amber’ or ‘red’:

• A green light signifies that all criteria under that principle have been considered and addressed.

• An amber light signifies that some, if not all, have been considered and addressed.

• A red light signifies that few, if any, have been considered and addressed.

Those principles rating ‘red’ or ‘amber’ may require further consideration if the station or design proposal is to meet with best practice.

The complete framework is available from Network Rail as an Excel spreadsheet.

Design Framework

Usability Comments Actions

U1 MovementU 1.1 Plan spatial capacity to meet with predicted future demand

Does spatial provision meet with current and predicted future needs?Has adequate spatial provision been allowed for a decision points, queue locations and passenger cross flows?

U 1.2 Design legible spaces, with direct, convenient routesDoes the spatial configuration provide for logical passenger movement?Does the spatial design allow clear sightlines and views between principal destinations?Have passenger facilities been located to minimise conflicts with movement routes and station operations?

U 1.3 Provide multiple access points to increase permeability and catchment area

Does the spatial configuration provide for efficient pedestrian and vehicular access to and from surrounding origins and destinations?Does the spatial design minimise issues of serverance and allow for cross station movements for users and non-users?

U 1.4 Provide high quality lighting to support passenger movement and activities

Has lighting been designed to define routes and spaces, supporting passenger movement and understanding?Has a task based lighting strategy been designed?Has a daylighting strategy been developed to support effective use of managed daylight and transition between illumination types?

U2 Accessible and InclusiveU2.1 Provide obstacle- and step-free spaces to accommodate the needs of all users

Are spaces clutter free with appropriate tonal contrast between wall and floor surfaces?Does the station design provide for barrier-free access and movement?

U2.2 Optimise lift and escalator locations and capacitiesHave escalators and lifts been located on or adjacent to desire lines with good natural surveilance?

U2.3 Provide for mobility assistance buggies where appropriate

Has provision been made for mobility buggies avoiding impacts on other station operations?

U3 Wayfinding & passenger informationU3.1 Provide service information to meet with the needs of all passengers

Is service information available across the station environment? U3.2 Provide consistent wayfinding and signing, integrated within the built design

Does wayfinding comply with Network Rail's Wayfinding Standards?

Have temporary information needs been considered and integrated as part of the built design?Is signing provision balanced with retail frontage and advertising to avoid visual clutter?

U3.3 Provide information and direction beyond the station footprintDoes wayfinding and information support onward movement beyond the station footprint?

U3.4 Provide accessible information throughout the station to enhance inclusivity

Can service information be accessed and understood by all users?U4 Comfort and attractivenessU4.1 Provide appropriate facilities, amenities and spaces

Have passenger amentities, such as retail and toilet facilities been provided appropriate to use and context?

U4.2 Provide effective climate protection, noise mitigation and control against unpleasant sensory experiences

Does the design provide appropriate protection from the full range of weather conditions, unpleasant smells and noise?Has the design considered the need for resilience against climatic change and extreme weather?

U4.3 Provide appropriate space for waiting areasHave passenger waiting rooms, been provided appropriate to station function, use and capacity?

Rating

Operability Comments Actions

O1 Station operationsO1.1 Provide appropriate spatial capacity for all station functions

Will capacity be maintained to ensure efficient station operations over the lifetime of an improvement project?Does the spatial organisation provide for efficient vehicle access and manoeuvring, while minimising conflicts between vehicles, pedestrians and other station users?Does spatial allocation provide for all equipment and vehicular needs including luggage trolleys, bicycles and service vehicles?

O1.2 Coordinate modal integrationDoes the design provide for balanced and efficient modal integration?Does the design facilitate convenient and safe access for pedestrians and other feeder modes to meet with passenger and operational needs?Is intermodal signing and information available and coordinated?Do lighting strategies for intermodal connections meet with minimum requirements and integrate with third party lighting where these extend beyond the station threshold? Metro and UndergroundAre routes convenient, direct and clearly signed?Has sufficient capacity been provided at entrances to avoid conflicts?Bus and tramAre stops located to enable efficient, clear and unobstructed movement?Do stop locations have good natural surveilance and lighting?CycleHave appropriate bicycle facilities been provided?TaxisDoes the design include conveniently located pick-up and drop-off areas for taxis and private vehicles?

O1.3 Provide for efficient service vehicle and delivery access and storage

Has efficient service vehicle, delivery access and storage been provided for to minimise the impact on passengers and day-to-day station operations?

O1.4 Provide appropriate and convenient facilities for station staff

Have convenient and comfortable staff facilities been provided appropriate to the station size, location and functions?

O2 Management and maintenanceO2.1 Facilitate efficient station maintenance and cleaning

Can regular maintenance be undertaken efficiently, with minimal impact to station operations?

O2.2 Establish rights and responsibilities of stakeholders

Have management and maintenance requirements been considered and agreed to with all relevant stakeholders?

O2.3 Use robust and resilient materials

Does material selection and design facilitate ease of maintenance and include vandalism deterrents appropriate to the station function, use and context?

O2.4 Establish an agreed heritage asset management process

Does the station design take full account of heritage assets and needs?

O3 SafetyO3.1 Design facilities and spaces to minimise the potential for accidents to staff and station users

Have potential hazards and accident risks been minimized for all station users?

O3.3 Ensure full compliance with all statutory emergency requirementsDoes the station design comply with all statutory emergency requirements?

O4 Secure by designO4.1 Assess and minimise the risk of malicious practices or natural threats through secure and sensitive design

Have malicious practices been identified and addressed through sensitive design?

O4.2 Prevent crime through environmental designHave Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design principles been followed?

O4.3 Design usable, active and secure facilities and spaces for day and night use

Does the station design provide for mixed, active uses at different times of day and night?

O4.4 Provide for effective use of CCTV

Has effective use been made of CCTV?

Rating

Quality Comments Actions

Q1 Integration with contextQ1.1 Design station facilities to integrate with the public realm

Does the station design integrate seamlessly with the surrounding public realm?

Q1.2 Design for an interconnected network of streets, footpaths, bike routes and public spaces

Is accessibility to and from the local area enhanced through provision of interconnected streets, bike routes and public spaces?

Q1.3 Encourage provision of active public spaces in surrounding areasHave surrounding public spaces been designed to provide high quality places where people will want to linge and enjoy?

Q2 Promote good designQ2.1 Consider scale, massing and orientation of buildings and spaces

Has the relationship of the station and any surrounding development been considered to ensure a positive integration that opens up views, sightlines and maximises energy optimisation opportunities?

Q2.2 Design station environments where people want to travel, shop and work

Does the station design provide for a mix of uses to provide welcoming places appropriate to use, context and function?


Have materials been selected to provide a balance between function, performance, sustainability, cost efficency and appearance?

Have standardised and modular elements been considered where appropriate?

Q3 Sense of placeQ3.1 Locate and design stations to promote a positive image and identity while respecting their local context

Is the facility design appropriate and responsive to its local context?Does the station design foster a distinctive identity?


Does status or demand justify distinctive, landmark design?Q3.2 Add value through landscaping and public art

Has landscaping and public art been considered and integrated as part of the built design?

Q4 Anticipate passengers' changinmg and dynamic needsQ4.1 Design responsive and flexible places

Does the design anticipate the need for future change in either capacity, technology or surrounding land use?

Rating

Value Comments Actions

V1 Whole-life costsV1.1 Consider whole-life and life-cycle costs

Have all phases of the station's life been considered?V1.2 Optimise functionality of built design

Has the design been optimised to minimise ongoing operational costs, waste and the consumption of natural resources?

V2 Positive economic, social and environmental impactV2.1 Apply environmental design best practice standards

Have environmental best practice design standards been considered and applied?

V2.2 Minimise energy use and explore sustainable energy sourcesDoes the design exploit opportunities to maximise energy efficiency over the station's whole-life?Have renewable energy opportunities been considered to reduce energy impacts?

V2.3 Consider embodied energy and ease of maintenanceHas end of life reuse and disposal been considered to minimise waste and allow for positive reuse and regeneration of components?Have materials been selected to avoid complicated repair, removal or disposal processes?

V3 Respect and conserve natural systemsV3.1 Design landscapes to preserve and restore natural habitats

Have negative impacts on surrounding ecosystems been minimised?V3.2 Maintain and improve soil, water quality and use

Has water quality been protected from contamination?

Have stormwater management techniques been incorporated?V4 Act as a catalyst for regenerationV4.1 Optimise revenue generating opportunities

Does the design provide for effective retail integration without compromise to station operations?Has retail and advertising space, frontages and signing been integrated within the built design to avoid conflict with station operations?

V4.2 Integrated developmentsDoes the design provide for development opportunities appropriate to trhe station context, use and function?Does the design allow for effective integration with developments?

Rating


This document was produced by Network Rail with the assistance of Steer Davies Gleave.

Photo credits:

Network Rail 24, 26, 39, 44, 47, 49, 54, 67, 74, 78, 79, 80, 82, 84, 90, 95, 96, 99, 102, 104 (Glasgow) Steer Davies Gleave Front cover, 14, 20, 22, 23, 29 (Euston), 32, 34, 35, 37, 38 (King’s Cross), 39, 48, 51, 55, 64, 65, 68, 72, 73, 77, 104 (Paddington)Paul Childs vi, 2, 4, 8, 16, 18, 25, 28, 29 (Paddington), 38 (Piccadilly), 40, 42, 56, 57, Arthur Lui 61Dave Barbour 66Nick Hill 83, 90Jason Bruges Studio 85Townshend Landscape Architects 105

Acknowledgements

Acknowledgements

Guide to Station Planning and Design Issue 1 Guide to Station Planning and Design A . Introduction...

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