As issued by Crossrail - 22 June.
A new improved design for Whitechapel Station was made public by Crossrail.
The new plan includes a whole host of upgrades which will benefit passengers and local residents whilst delivering substantial savings compared to the original proposal.
The new images show the design keeps a direct entrance on Whitechapel Road. The new approach dramatically reduces the amount of excavation building work needed meaning less inconvenience for local residents while the work is going on.
Working with architects BDP and Hyder Consulting, Crossrail has listened to feedback from local residents and the local authority, Tower Hamlets, and included ideas and comments from that in the new plans. The new designs also offer better value for money.
When Crossrail opens in 2017, Whitechapel station will become an important transport hub connecting the new line to the District and Hammersmith & City lines as well as the new London Overground line.
BDP and Hyder’s designs will incorporate natural light, improving the passenger experience while enhancing the historic features of the old station. The architects have made best use of the unique personality of the existing station and introduced easy, step-free access to the reinstated entrance on Whitechapel Road as well as to the Royal London Hospital on the other side of the road.
The new plans are accessible and safer for pedestrians, with a spectacular walkway alongside the concourse which provides a free pedestrian route from Durward Street on to Whitechapel Road for local residents.
The access and ventilation shafts around Whitechapel station have also been re-designed to minimise impact on local residents. The height of Cambridge Heath Road shaft is now reduced and the Durward Street shaft has been split into two structures to have ventilation facing inwards away from the surrounding structures, which include a school.
Owen Whalley, Head of Planning and Building Control, London Borough of Tower Hamlets said:
“The Council welcomes Crossrail’s positive response to our concerns about the original station design proposals which had a main entrance on Fulbourne Street. The new station, with its entrance on Whitechapel Road, is a great improvement. It will benefit passengers using the station as well as local residents who will be able to use the new footpath connecting Durward Street and Whitechapel Road.”
Rob Holden, Crossrail Chief Executive, said:
“Crossrail is sensitive to local issues and I am delighted that our discussions with Tower Hamlets and the local community have resulted in such an exciting new station design. The new Whitechapel station is something of which the local community can be proud. Crossrail and its partners are committed to delivering this crucial railway while ensuring value for money at every step.”
Kulveer Ranger, the Mayor of London's transport adviser, said:
"Crossrail is crucial to the regeneration of East London. This development is about investing in a great design which reflects the views of local residents at the best value for money. I am delighted to see the plans coming together for a truly exciting development."
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