Wedoany.com Report on Feb 13th, London's Planning and Transportation Committee has recently approved Network Rail's redevelopment plan for Liverpool Street Station, aiming to enhance the capacity, accessibility, and commercial space of this busy transport hub. The station has not undergone a major refurbishment since 1991, while passenger numbers have nearly tripled over the past 35 years, currently serving approximately 118 million passengers annually. Network Rail predicts that passenger numbers could reach 158 million by 2041, and the new works will prepare the station to accommodate over 200 million passengers in the future.
The redevelopment plan includes increasing the overall concourse capacity by 76%, expanding the lower-level concourse by 23%, and achieving step-free access from street level to all platforms for the first time, including the London Underground lines. It will add eight new lifts and six new escalators, improve entrances and passageways, and add public amenities such as toilets on every level. The plan preserves the historic Victorian train shed structure and includes the construction of a new office building above the concourse with a public roof garden.
Network Rail estimates the redevelopment could contribute up to £4.6 billion annually to London's economy, demonstrating the benefits of improved transport connectivity. A multi-disciplinary team has been assembled for the project, involving architecture, engineering, and heritage conservation. Planning permission has been granted, but construction is subject to remaining conditions and securing funding, with a timeline yet to be announced.
Liverpool Street Station is a key node for commuter and regional services. The redevelopment will address long-standing issues of congestion and access limitations, particularly benefiting passengers with reduced mobility and those with luggage. While the plan commits to preserving historical elements, local groups may scrutinize the details. This is Network Rail's second attempt, following a previous plan that was abandoned due to negative feedback.
Ellie Burrows, Network Rail's Eastern Region Managing Director, said: "This decision is a crucial step towards transforming one of Britain's busiest stations, marking the start of an exciting new chapter for Liverpool Street." "Our plan focuses on improving the daily experience for passengers while respecting the station's unique heritage. With annual passenger numbers expected to rise to 158 million, this approval ensures the station can adapt for decades to come."
Joe Streeten, Managing Director at Aecom, said: "Aecom welcomes the decision to approve the Liverpool Street Station redevelopment, marking a pivotal moment in upgrading one of the UK's busiest railway stations to meet future needs while respecting its history." "By combining significant improvements in accessibility, capacity, and passenger experience with sensitively integrated commercial space, the scheme helps secure the long-term investment needed to support a nationally important transport hub." "We are proud to have helped the project reach this key milestone and look forward to continuing our collaboration to ensure Liverpool Street Station is both fit for the future and true to its past."
