The revised designs follow vocal objections to the original proposals filed in May 2023
Liverpool Street, which is served by National Rail, Overground, Elizabeth Line and Underground trains, is the busiest station in the UK; around 118 million people use it annually and that figure is expected to rise to 158 million by 2041. Network Rail has been planning to future proof the station to cope with those numbers for a few years now but the redevelopment hasn’t been smooth sailing.
Initial designs, which included the partial demolition of the Victorian station and the addition of a new multi-storey tower above the neighbouring Grade-II listed Andaz Hotel, were submitted to the City of London Corporation in May 2023. These plans, created with property developer Sellar, received thousands of public objections, including from Westminster Council, Historic England, the Victorian Society, and public figures like Stephen Fry and Tracey Emin, forcing Network Rail to go back to the drawing board.
Revised plans produced by a different team, including new architects Acme (and not including Sellar), were put to public consultation at the end of 2024 and have now been submitted. Among the amendments are a reduction in size of the office block above the station, a realignment of the building so it no longer interferes with the hotel, a redesign of the station entrance, and the addition of landscaping and benches by the Kindertransport statue. The size of the concourse will also be increased and family rooms and quiet areas will also be added to the station.
The Victorian Society, led by Griff Rhys Jones, still opposes the development, particularly the proposed demolition of the existing concourse, with Jones previously saying they “cannot accept that this is the best way forward”.
Speaking about the scheme, Robin Dobson, group property director for Network Rail Property, said: “We’re proud to be leading the submission of a transformative scheme for the redevelopment of London Liverpool Street station — one that is a truly accessible and inclusive space, can support the forecasted annual passenger rise to over 200 million and deliver vital improvements to the everyday experience of passengers while respecting and celebrating the station’s historic character.
“Investing in transport infrastructure is essential to unlocking future economic growth for London and beyond. This investment will ensure Liverpool Street remains a landmark gateway to the City of London for generations to come.
“Following extensive consultation and engagement with a wide range of stakeholders, our plans put passengers first whilst respecting and retaining the station’s Victorian features, including the iconic trainshed and the Great Eastern Hotel.”
You can find more details about the redevelopment of the station here.
Stay in the loop…
Sign up to our drops & get us in your inbox.
We’ll be in your inbox every Wednesday at 11:30am.
Put the kettle on!
