News 02.10.2009
Station improvements will provide better welcome to Ashford
Long awaited improvements to Ashford station are under way and the first phase will soon be complete.
From December travellers will step out of a state of the art glazed station entrance/exit into an improved forecourt leading to the town centre, Designer Outlet and beyond in the first phase of works to give Ashford the kind of station a town served by high speed trains deserves.
A further phase of works to improve access to and the appearance of the station area will begin next spring. The works will create a high quality and locally distinctive public realm and improved cycle and pedestrian access via the subway links under the railway.
The changes will significantly enhance passengers’ experience of arriving at Ashford International Station and travelling to and from the town centre and Designer Outlet. The works will complement the current changes to the station forecourt and facilities including the extension of the booking hall and improved lighting, toilets and platform waiting areas.
Gillespies is designing the square.
The project is being delivered on behalf of Ashford’s Future, Southeastern and Network Rail and is funded through Growth Area Funding from central government. Works for this phase of station improvements will start in spring 2010 and be completed by spring 2011. Judith Armitt, Managing Director of Ashford’s Future, said: “Ashford already provides unrivalled rail links to Europe and the rest of Kent. The introduction of high speed services, now running in preview mode, means journey times to the capital take just 37 minutes.
“From December the launch of the full high-speed service will be complemented by a more attractive station to travel from and to. Travellers to Ashford will receive a fitting welcome to the town by arriving at a pleasant, modern looking building and plaza with excellent connections to the town centre and other key destinations.”