Better rail stations

This paper presents a review of the state of UK railway stations and recommendations for short- and long-term improvements. Only two-thirds of travellers are satisfied with station facilities. However, additional funding will be very limited up to 2014, and the authors propose that minimum standards should be introduced in every new franchise in the interim, with funding directed to priority cases. Key recommendations include minimum standards for each of six station categories. Ten interchange stations are proposed for priority funding. The spending rate on station improvement should be increased by a quarter for the period 2014-2024. Better access to stations is needed with the creation of cycle and car parking. Stations should be planned as transport hubs to involve local communities and other transport operators.