How far should stations go to ensure security

This article addresses efforts in the UK to design railway stations that are resilient to terrorist attacks, while not compromising passenger privacy, travel time and cost. Profiled is the SecureStation, a EU FP7 project led by University of Sheffield researchers that is focused on railway station security and terrorist threats. Researchers are developing a risk assessment tool and design handbook for infrastructure managers, transport operators and architects. In addition to seeking the opinions of these stakeholders, researchers have also sought the opinion of the travelling public on a variety of issues including personal privacy, travel time, ticket prices, and security and convenience. Upon the project’s completion at the end of 2013, a set of design guidelines will be provided for both new stations and station refurbishments.