Stations being done up - when and where?

[Failed Unit]

Is branding really the most important thing at a station? Obviously, the TOC's will have you believe so, but would it not be of more benefit to them if their passengers travelled from a fabulous looking station, regardless of branding? Surely passengers travelling from a smart, friendly station will automatically think more of the company that operates it? Take Wakefield Kirkgate as a prime example - the shoddy, run down affair that it is today can't be good for business and that already has Northern and Metro branding. A new facade, tidying up the platforms, some modern amenities and a feeling of safety and security would surely improve passengers' confidence about travelling from the station and, as such, enhance the reputation of the operator.

I think most people want in this order.

1. Somewhere safe and cared for (Graffiti may be harmless but doesn't put passengers at ease)
2. Shelter (Anyone ever been to Barnetby will know the bus shelters don't work)
3. The ability to buy / collect tickets. Yes I understand that a station like Brigg having a TVM is pointless but there are other staffed ones that should. All stations in Penalty fare areas should have TVM's regardless of footfall!

Accessability will be high on some peoples list as well, using a barrow crossing with a buggy is better than fighting a bridge at a station.

You have no choice in who owns the station, no-one goes to Edinburgh Waverley because they don't want to use Scotrail operated Haymarket (because of the operator at least). People may use Waverley to get a seat if going first or to avoid the steps if heading to Glasgow.

While someone mentions St Pancras, I don't like the way they do the departure boards by operator there. Maybe just be but they should run left to right with the earliest train. I was looking for a train on the High Speed line and couldn't find it listed, not realising it wouldn't be on the EMT only departure board!

 

[daccer]

Edinburgh waverley has apparently been started with preparatory works being done. I see also Aberdeen is getting done as part of a wider scheme and also Dundee as a big plan in place as well as extra platforms being done at Glasgow Central. Is it me or does there seem to be more care being taken north of the border - i suppose we could say that about the railways in general in Scotland. I do hope that the current trend for station adoption spreads and also that disused station buildings can continue to find alternative uses rather than jsut get demolished,

 

[emoaconr]

Although going slightly off the thread trend of principal stations, my local station has to be one of the dirtiest, most unwelcoming railway station I have ever come accross. Yes its functional and I use it, its not a pretty sight for the first stop out of Wrexham, and is regulary littered and sprayed with graffitti. I realise its not as bad as it was 10+ years ago, but its still not pretty!

These photos were taken on a good day. I do appreciate ATW's recent efforts to tidy it up, even if I do find station liverying an odd procedure indeed.

http://i126.photobucket.com/albums/p105/marbles333/Gwersyllt/DSC00558.jpg
http://i126.photobucket.com/albums/p105/marbles333/Gwersyllt/DSC00559.jpg
http://i126.photobucket.com/albums/p105/marbles333/Gwersyllt/DSC00560.jpg

 

[Spaceflower]

Two which spring to mind are Durham and Hartlepool.

Hartlepool is being redeveloped as an interchange and I believe they are re-instating the old platform.

Durham has recently undergone a full makeover with a new shop, waiting rooms and booking hall and glass covered concourse. Don't care for it myself, preferring the old, but that's probably more to do with my own personal attachments to the former.

 

[Crossforth]

There are plans, I heard, for Grand Central to be giving Wakefield Kirkgate a minor overhaul in preparation for the start of their services.

Leeds is also getting a new south entrance but why can't the sort out the main entrance as it looks like a mini Euston. The actual station is fine but the concourse is... :mad:hock:ad: