25.03.19
Major redevelopment plans for Edinburgh Waverley station unveiled
Network Rail has launched a consultation on a multi-million long-term redevelopment plan for Edinburgh’s Waverley Station.
With annual passengers expected to double to nearly 50 million, Waverley Station is set to undergo a major renovation which could see new concourses, a central plaza, a revamped Waverley bridge and a new feature roof.
Network Rail is now asking rail passengers, customers and the public for their views on the station’s long-term future and several options developed after a team of engineers, architects and urban planners led by Arup analysed the patterns of the existing station.
The Waverley Masterplan aims to reduce congestion and crowding, improving accessibility and delivering a modern, vibrant station for passengers.
The plans were produced in partnership between Network Rail and the City of Edinburgh Council, and now early work has been completed, a public engagement phase will run from 25 March to 26 April, looking to establish a preferred strategy.
Alex Hynes, the managing director of the ScotRail Alliance, said: “Such a steep increase [in passenger numbers] is a positive indicator of the railway’s economic influence on the city and Scotland but also a clear sign that further investment will be required.
“We are creating additional rail provision within Waverley at present and will continue to seek new ways to create the best railway that Scotland has ever had. However, more trains mean more people and that inevitably adds to the pressure on station infrastructure and the surrounding streets.”
The final plan will be published in September, with work at Waverley expected to be phased over 30 years and it is hoped the station will be fully functioning throughout.
Michael Matheson, cabinet secretary for transport, infrastructure and connectivity commented: “Edinburgh Waverley is the gateway to Scotland’s capital and beyond with a real historical significance within the city’s heritage.
“As rail grows in popularity, it is only fitting the station is enhanced in the years and decades to come thus enabling it to accommodate forecast passenger demand for cross-border, regional and commuter services.
“By engaging, listening, developing and testing concepts we will be better able to deliver a future-proofed station that focuses on the passenger experience within its distinctive world-class setting.”