The key to encouraging a return to rail: Train station transformation

摘要

When people begin to return to rail, they will be looking for reassurance that stations and trains are clean, and that social distancing can be enforced. Train operators have been hit hard by the pandemic and so it makes sense for them, and station owners, to≈concentrate on having systems and routines in place so that passengers feel encouraged back onto trains and have the confidence to travel safely. But, long before the pandemic, train stations were evolving into modern spaces, with many boosting the traveller's ability to remain digitally connected, and some stations being transformed into 'hubs' to cater for leisure, business and housing needs, rather than simply being an entry point to railway networks. Train stations are also particularly well placed to help the rail industry to meet its green goals. Of course, they are gateways to one of the most environmentally friendly modes of transport, but stations themselves can be easily transformed into eco-friendly, energy-efficient spaces. Whilst the pandemic may change the environment of our train stations in the short- to mid-term, we mustn't forget that the travelling public will always have changing requirements and demands - and our Roundtable on the Future of Train Stations in this issue, starting on page 11, is a great read to find out what experts from Network Rail, LNER, SNCF Gares & Connexions, Brightline and the Indian Railway Stations Development Corporation Limited (IRSDC) think about the role that train stations will play in the future. Don't forget that our website includes online-only exclusive content, including news updates, in-depth articles and interviews with rail industry experts. Make sure that you also join and engage with our groups on all main social media platforms - simply search for Global Railway Review.