What should stations be like?

[harry42]

From an enthusiasts point of view, (following on from Blackpool North thread,) what do you want from a station?

E.g. where are ticket barriers, staff, shops, queuing systems etc.

Just curious really...

 

[ryan125hst]

Personally, I would like stations:

• to be staffed from first train to last train
• have toilets that are free and clean and are open while the trains are running
• have waiting rooms that are cool in summer and warm in winter with passenger information screens in them and capacity that reflects the number of passengers that want to use it.
• have ticket offices that are open for as long as possible- I appreciate that after 8 or 9pm, most close as there is little demand for them, so machines should be available to allow tickets to be purchased by card or cash.
• have vending machines for food and drinks, and preferably a catering outlet open for most of the day, every day.
• ticket barriers present, but staff allow people to access the platforms to wave family off, use the station facilities and allow rail enthusiasts onto the platform.

It's all I can think of for now. I'll add to the list if I think of anything else.

It's an interesting question.

 

[DarloRich]

From an enthusiasts point of view, (following on from Blackpool North thread,) what do you want from a station?

E.g. where are ticket barriers, staff, shops, queuing systems etc.

Just curious really...

Surely all that matters is what they are like from a passenger point of view

 

[bronzeonion]

Staffed
Toilets (not bloody pay ones either)
Ticket Office + a few machines but ticket office should be open as much as possible
Clean
Canopy all the way along the platform
Bins, preferably normal + recycling
Benches
Good audio and visual information systems
Affordable shop or if a small quiet station cheap vending machines
Bright lighting

 

[fowler9]

Well looking at Liverpool South Parkway which is one of the stations I use the most what would I like to see improved? I really quite like it but it could do with more than three toilets, more than one person selling tickets in the evening peak (whilst it has no ticket machines), for the barrier staff on platforms 1-4 to stop letting people with tickets that work through the automatic barriers go through the manned one and for them to get all the information screens working again.

These are all minor grumbles and on the whole I think it is a really good station. The thing with the manned barrier has led to me missing trains since I have to use it as my ticket is not one the barriers will take. This problem normally occurs when I am trying to get on to the platform whe a long distance train has arrived in the evening peak. On the plus side I am normally only going to the city centre and don't have to wait long for another service.

 

[kevconnor]

I think the limiting factor is always going to be about size and patronage of the station. I wouldn't expect Denton Station to be staffed whilst it only has one parliamentary train per week calling at it. Much in the same way as to me it would be better if the desks for purchase of advance tickets at Manchester Piccadilly were to remain open a little later than 6pm.

 

[Searle]

From an enthusiasts point of view, (following on from Blackpool North thread,) what do you want from a station?

E.g. where are ticket barriers, staff, shops, queuing systems etc.

Just curious really...

Surely all that matters is what they are like from a passenger point of view

That's not what he's asking though, is it?

Personally, I'm not too bothered about staffing or catering outlets in off peak times, but at least a vending machine would be nice. And toilets (that are free!), especially where the trains running don't have any toilets. An area of shade/shelter is a must as well.

 

[Panda]

have waiting rooms that are warm in summer and cool in winter

My personal preference is for them to be warm in winter and a bit cooler in summer

 

[ryan125hst]

My personal preference is for them to be warm in winter and a bit cooler in summer

My mistake

They aren't normally like that though are they? (at least the one on platform 2/5 at Sheffield wasn't back in March-freezing cold it was!)

 

[61653 HTAFC]

... This problem normally occurs when I am trying to get on to the platform whe a long distance train has arrived in the evening peak. On the plus side I am normally only going to the city centre and don't have to wait long for another service.

This was always an issue at Huddersfield in the evening peak, prior to the barriers being installed- As the concourse has only 3 narrow doorways to enter or exit, meaning if you weren't the most aggressive/assertive person you'd end up being swept back into St George's Square by the deluge of people leaving!

With this in mind (though as I say, the barriers have improved things), for stations such as Huddersfield (i.e. those that have a heavy flow of traffic both in and out in each peak- so Reading I imagine is similar) a clever management of passenger flow is required. One particular gripe I have with Huddersfield in this respect is the 'new' stairway down to the subway on platform one: The new stairway now rises up onto the platform rather than the concourse, which is slightly awkward- but this was probably needed to allow the usable space in the concourse to grow. My issue is that the new staircase could really have been wider and fitted with a central handrail to divide the up and down flows. Of course, this would also need a scheme to educate my fellow HD-ers of the difference between Left and Right! :roll:

Other than that, I wouldn't say that all stations need to be staffed (If this was required, many smaller stations would become unviable) but ticket machines should be provided along with CCTV to prevent theft from/vandalism of said machines. It would also be nice to have a bit more variety in the catering options in larger stations, perhaps encouraging local companies to take on some of the units rather than everywhere having a mediocre Pumpkin/Upper Crust.

 

[fowler9]

This was always an issue at Huddersfield in the evening peak, prior to the barriers being installed- As the concourse has only 3 narrow doorways to enter or exit, meaning if you weren't the most aggressive/assertive person you'd end up being swept back into St George's Square by the deluge of people leaving!

With this in mind (though as I say, the barriers have improved things), for stations such as Huddersfield (i.e. those that have a heavy flow of traffic both in and out in each peak- so Reading I imagine is similar) a clever management of passenger flow is required. One particular gripe I have with Huddersfield in this respect is the 'new' stairway down to the subway on platform one: The new stairway now rises up onto the platform rather than the concourse, which is slightly awkward- but this was probably needed to allow the usable space in the concourse to grow. My issue is that the new staircase could really have been wider and fitted with a central handrail to divide the up and down flows. Of course, this would also need a scheme to educate my fellow HD-ers of the difference between Left and Right! :roll:

Other than that, I wouldn't say that all stations need to be staffed (If this was required, many smaller stations would become unviable) but ticket machines should be provided along with CCTV to prevent theft from/vandalism of said machines. It would also be nice to have a bit more variety in the catering options in larger stations, perhaps encouraging local companies to take on some of the units rather than everywhere having a mediocre Pumpkin/Upper Crust.

Thing is South Parkway has barriers and no one uses them. Well at least next to no one.It does however have what I think is an an independent catering outlet which for comedy value advertises on a chalk board "All day breakfast, served all day!". I hope it is for comedy value anyway otherwise the owner is daft.

 

[Condor7]

I always think big stations miss out on providing viewing areas, especially where food and drink can be provided.

Airports do this almost as a matter of course, and they prove very popular, and not just for passengers or those waiting for passengers. Many I know drive to the airport with their children just to sit and watch the planes come in, even my mother loves me to take her there.

I think it would do a lot of good promoting the hobby as well, and would hopefully engender interest in the youngsters.

 

[61653 HTAFC]

Thing is South Parkway has barriers and no one uses them. Well at least next to no one.It does however have what I think is an an independent catering outlet which for comedy value advertises on a chalk board "All day breakfast, served all day!". I hope it is for comedy value anyway otherwise the owner is daft.

At many stations that have only recently had barriers, people do seem to flock to the wider one(s) close to where the staff are. Thankfully MOST passengers at Huddersfield have come to terms with barriers in just over a year, whereas at Leeds the barriers still seem to confuse most passengers over 2 years after fitting!

Another one I've thought of would require changes to the smoking ban legislation, but it would be nice if one could enjoy a smoke in the open platform areas of stations, rather than the entire structure being classed as an enclosed public space. In Scotland of course, the law does allow this.

 

[DarloRich]

That's not what he's asking though, is it?

Personally, I'm not too bothered about staffing or catering outlets in off peak times, but at least a vending machine would be nice. And toilets (that are free!), especially where the trains running don't have any toilets. An area of shade/shelter is a must as well.

no I agree its not what he is asking. But what the passenger thinks is all that matters.

 

[fowler9]

At many stations that have only recently had barriers, people do seem to flock to the wider one(s) close to where the staff are. Thankfully MOST passengers at Huddersfield have come to terms with barriers in just over a year, whereas at Leeds the barriers still seem to confuse most passengers over 2 years after fitting!

Another one I've thought of would require changes to the smoking ban legislation, but it would be nice if one could enjoy a smoke in the open platform areas of stations, rather than the entire structure being classed as an enclosed public space. In Scotland of course, the law does allow this.

Yeah, regarding the smoking ban, I can stand outside the entrance to the station and breath smoke on everyone walking in and out (Not that I would) as they walk past a dual carriageway pumping out all kinds of stuff anyway, but I can't wander down to the far end of the platform and have a ciggy.

 

[The Ham]

There should be more use of shops/catering selling tickets so that people can buy tickets from a person even when ticket offices are closed.

That may mean that there are less ticket offices open and the those that remain open are likely to be open for shorter times (or replacing with more gate staff with machines), however it is likely to go down well with the travelling public. Although I can see that it'd not be popular with the unions.

 

[61653 HTAFC]

There should be more use of shops/catering selling tickets so that people can buy tickets from a person even when ticket offices are closed.

That may mean that there are less ticket offices open and the those that remain open are likely to be open for shorter times (or replacing with more gate staff with machines), however it is likely to go down well with the travelling public. Although I can see that it'd not be popular with the unions.

Merseytravel/Merseyrail have tried this at some of their busier stations. Not sure how successful they've been as I've only ever used the one at Moorfields, and that was on a Sunday evening so I imagine the quietness wasn't typical!

 

[Greenback]

Personally, I would like stations:

• to be staffed from first train to last train
• have toilets that are free and clean and are open while the trains are running
• have waiting rooms that are cool in summer and warm in winter with passenger information screens in them and capacity that reflects the number of passengers that want to use it.
• have ticket offices that are open for as long as possible- I appreciate that after 8 or 9pm, most close as there is little demand for them, so machines should be available to allow tickets to be purchased by card or cash.
• have vending machines for food and drinks, and preferably a catering outlet open for most of the day, every day.
• ticket barriers present, but staff allow people to access the platforms to wave family off, use the station facilities and allow rail enthusiasts onto the platform.

It's all I can think of for now. I'll add to the list if I think of anything else.

It's an interesting question.

I'm pleased to report that Swansea meets all of your requirements!

I think the limiting factor is always going to be about size and patronage of the station. I wouldn't expect Denton Station to be staffed whilst it only has one parliamentary train per week calling at it. Much in the same way as to me it would be better if the desks for purchase of advance tickets at Manchester Piccadilly were to remain open a little later than 6pm.

I can't ever see Gowerton station being staffed, a TVM is about the best we can expect for stations like that. It really could do with some better shelters, though, I was disappointed that a proper canopy couldn't have been installed during last year's improvements, at least on the Swansea and Cardiff bound platform.

I do see the future of smaller stations going along the lines of a shop selling tickets as well. I can understand that TOC's won't be too interested in that, so I expect entrepreneurs to get the more involved in the future.

 

[overtonchris]

On a 'wish-list' I'd like all of Ryan's ideas on post #2 with the addition of rubbish bins on all stations. Realistically never going to happen in the vast majority of places (Swansea being a bit of a rarity perhaps!), with most benefits coming at a cost that most people wouldn't entertain.

Fowler 9 post #15 has an interesting point re smoking on stations away from others.....I don't know why that particular (by-law) is there, unless it is to discourage people wandering off up the platform and putting station staff on edge re trespass / suicide / whatever.....or an attempt to alleviate dropped litter? Dunno! Sorry I digress...but I bet someone on here knows!

 

[61653 HTAFC]

Fowler 9 post #15 has an interesting point re smoking on stations away from others.....I don't know why that particular (by-law) is there, unless it is to discourage people wandering off up the platform and putting station staff on edge re trespass / suicide / whatever.....or an attempt to alleviate dropped litter? Dunno! Sorry I digress...but I bet someone on here knows!

I don't know for certain, but I've heard that the smoking thing is down to some detail in the way the legislation was written meaning the entire station is considered an enclosed public building, whether it's Birmingham New Street (which makes sense) or Dovey Junction (which really doesn't, unless there's been a severe drought!). The Scottish law was written differently and apparently does not forbid smoking in 'open' areas. However I have no idea if this is specifically set out in the Act or is just down to interpretation.

 

[LowLevel]

This was always an issue at Huddersfield in the evening peak, prior to the barriers being installed- As the concourse has only 3 narrow doorways to enter or exit, meaning if you weren't the most aggressive/assertive person you'd end up being swept back into St George's Square by the deluge of people leaving!

With this in mind (though as I say, the barriers have improved things), for stations such as Huddersfield (i.e. those that have a heavy flow of traffic both in and out in each peak- so Reading I imagine is similar) a clever management of passenger flow is required. One particular gripe I have with Huddersfield in this respect is the 'new' stairway down to the subway on platform one: The new stairway now rises up onto the platform rather than the concourse, which is slightly awkward- but this was probably needed to allow the usable space in the concourse to grow. My issue is that the new staircase could really have been wider and fitted with a central handrail to divide the up and down flows. Of course, this would also need a scheme to educate my fellow HD-ers of the difference between Left and Right! :roll:

Other than that, I wouldn't say that all stations need to be staffed (If this was required, many smaller stations would become unviable) but ticket machines should be provided along with CCTV to prevent theft from/vandalism of said machines. It would also be nice to have a bit more variety in the catering options in larger stations, perhaps encouraging local companies to take on some of the units rather than everywhere having a mediocre Pumpkin/Upper Crust.

CCTV prevents nothing. I know of stations where the CCTV cameras were stolen along with everything else that could be removed.

 

[overtonchris]

I don't know for certain, but I've heard that the smoking thing is down to some detail in the way the legislation was written meaning the entire station is considered an enclosed public building, whether it's Birmingham New Street (which makes sense) or Dovey Junction (which really doesn't, unless there's been a severe drought!). The Scottish law was written differently and apparently does not forbid smoking in 'open' areas. However I have no idea if this is specifically set out in the Act or is just down to interpretation.

Thank you for that. I travel very regularly from my local station (No prize for guessing!). We've got quite long platforms with not too much going on up the west end of the station. I don't think any of the locals would grizzle if someone "puffed a crafty" away from the 'popular end'. I was just interested and in ignorance.

 

[Western Lord]

I always think big stations miss out on providing viewing areas, especially where food and drink can be provided.

Airports do this almost as a matter of course, and they prove very popular, and not just for passengers or those waiting for passengers. Many I know drive to the airport with their children just to sit and watch the planes come in, even my mother loves me to take her there.

I think it would do a lot of good promoting the hobby as well, and would hopefully engender interest in the youngsters.

And which airports do you think provide viewing areas? All the large airports in this country actively discourage non passenger activity such as you describe. Try driving to Heathrow or Gatwick and parking somewhere to watch the planes come and go. At Stansted the police even patrol the surrounding lanes and question anybody parked up near the airport.

 

[dysonsphere]

And which airports do you think provide viewing areas? All the large airports in this country actively discourage non passenger activity such as you describe. Try driving to Heathrow or Gatwick and parking somewhere to watch the planes come and go. At Stansted the police even patrol the surrounding lanes and question anybody parked up near the airport.

On what grounds do they question them. If there parked legally they have no reason to ask them. I thought this was still a free country maybe Im wrong.

 

[button_boxer]

And which airports do you think provide viewing areas?

Manchester.

 

[Gathursty]

Stations should be minimalist and remote like Kinbrace or Altnabreac although a vending machine with some Bountys in them wouldn't go amiss.

 

[61653 HTAFC]

Stations should be minimalist and remote like Kinbrace or Altnabreac although a vending machine with some Bountys in them wouldn't go amiss.

Birmingham New Street would certainly be less claustrophobic if was open to the elements like that... Not sure the views would be any better though!

 

[BantamMenace]

You rarely find an airport or ferry terminal these days without Wi-Fi so how long before we can have it free at all major stations?

 

[GRALISTAIR]

Toilets (not bloody pay ones either)

I totally agree - I live in the USA. To have to pay for a totally normal human need is disgusting IMHO.

 

[Greenback]

I totally agree - I live in the USA. To have to pay for a totally normal human need is disgusting IMHO.

I agree, all food and drink should be free!