The US and UK have both conducted research on the role transit station investment has in the economic development of the surrounding area. We look at how they compare, and the lessons we can take from them.

Transit stations and interchanges are becoming modern day town squares, a new and enjoyable focal point for communities. This evolving dynamic needs to be taken into account when designing and planning stations.

While the space immediately outside the station needs to be designed to take account of peak periodic passenger movements, the social and commercial importance of this gathering space must not be underestimated. Stations are fast becoming a new form of community hub, or urban magnet, with places to shop, relax, enjoy a meal, or access information. Space needs to be provided for the people they attract, young and old, rich and poor, local and visitor.

Steer Davies Gleave Director Mike Goggin has won an award for Outstanding Achievement in Station Design & Construction.

Passenger Transport magazine published an article written by Mike Goggin, Director – International Advisory, which considers the contribution that station design can make to the UK. The article was published as part of a series in anticipation of the third Future of Sustainable Design conference which will focus on the theme of transport hubs.

Steer Davies Gleave Director Mike Goggin recently spoke at the UK National Rail Stations conference on the economic value and community importance of railway stations. This follows on from research carried out by Steer Davies Gleave on behalf of Network Rail titled ‘The Value of Station Investment’, which investigated the commercial potential of station development, the impact of station investment on the economy and the implications for future station investment.