New look for Slough's train station
Slough Borough council, in partnership with Network Rail and First Great Western is asking for resident and commuters views on a new look train station forecourt.
As part of a range of improvement measures, the three organisations have been looking at ways to enhance Slough railway station forecourt and now they want residents views on the proposals.
The stations’ forecourt accommodates a wide range of transport users and activity, but at present, there is considerable conflict between pedestrian movements and those of other road users.
The area has generally been neglected and is in need of attention to enhance the experience of all users and residents, so Slough council has come up with some proposals to enhance people’s experience of using the station.
The key scheme proposals are to:
* Pedestrianise the outside area of Slough station to improve segregation between pedestrians and other users
* Provide a more pleasant forecourt for all users with high quality street furniture, removal of the advertising hoarding and taxi office
* Provide a separate taxi rank area next to the forecourt with space for more vehicles
* Improve the pedestrian route to the town centre
* Provide better integration between the rail and proposed new bus station
* Provide a dedicated pick up and drop off area
* Provide improved long stay car parking arrangements at both car parks
* Provide dedicated short stay car parking spaces
Savio DeCruz, principal engineer (integrated transport) for Slough Borough Council, said: “The station plays a vital role in the local transport network and acts as an important gateway for people coming to Slough and commuters travelling to other locations such as London.
“This scheme is part of a wider programme of works in Slough focussing on improving the local urban environment and it goes some way to meeting the council’s objectives to improve transport facilities in the borough.”
Before any work is undertaken at the station the council is keen to understand what residents and business users think of the proposals and what they would most like to see improved.
Their views will be used to refine the final design which is intended for completion early next year. To have their say, all they have to do is complete a questionnaire, available at the train station and returning it by freepost by Monday 30 April 2007.
Slough Borough Council