Tom Holbrook, Director of 5th Studio notes:

“We have long maintained that infrastructure should be better integrated through design – too often it is the outcome of technical problem-solving, doing little to help make a sustainable, coherent place. Stratford has been a complex project to deliver because of its four-headed client team, but that gives the work we have done a strong and unified foundation for making Stratford Station fit for the next century, as one of the capital’s most important interchanges. For Newham Council and the LLDC, this project has been about cementing the legacy of the games and supporting community wealth-building in one of London’s most deprived boroughs. Network Rail and TfL have focussed respectively on optimising the operation of a critical station and a busy bus and metro interchange, as well as supporting active travel. Brought together, our design work articulates a common vision for the creation of a sustainable, successful, well-connected place at the heart of Stratford.

We believe that this approach presents a model for creating better integrated and sustainable public infrastructure that creates value through a strong place-based vision.”

Rokhsana Fiaz, Mayor of Newham, speaking on behalf of the Stratford Station coalition, said:

“The business case submitted to Government outlines plans to transform the confusing, constrained and crowded layout at the station. We need a modern, thriving transport hub so that Stratford continues to support the growth of East London and deliver more homes and jobs. We are predicting a 60% growth in passenger numbers by 2041 which is why we urgently need to plan now to improve the station.

A Shared Vision for The Future

What Stratford Station and the surrounding area could look like:

• Between 1,000 – 2,000 new homes
• Up to 10,000 jobs
• New retail and community spaces
• New bridge across the railway tracks
• New park and public space
• New walking and cycling street
• High-class bus stations
• High-class train station
• Streets for people
• Climate resilient and inclusive place

Train and Bus Station Facilities

Our proposals build on both the findings of public consultation events and reviews of detailed transport demand modelling. The UDF captures the demand to improve the station environment:

• Moving around the station to be more enjoyable and a more accessible transport interchange
• Better connections to help you find your way around, alongside better lighting and toilet facilities
• More support for walking and cycling as well as making it easier to catch a bus or train.

Bridges, Streets and Open Spaces

The UDF provides a vision and design principles to integrate the station, the town centre and the surrounding communities:

• More seating and places to spend time with family and friends
• Reduced pollution and improved air quality, as well as a clean station environment with more trees and plants to support wildlife
• Moving around the station and surrounding neighbourhood to be easy if you are cycling or can’t use steps
• The station, surrounding streets and spaces to be enjoyable at all times of the day and across the year

JOBS, SHOPS AND HOMES

Within the UDF area there is the opportunity to create a coordinated approach to development, ensuring that social value and community wealth building are ley priorities:

• Stratford to continue being a thriving town centre, and enjoyable for everyone across the year
• More independent shops, food markets, and cultural events to experience
• Commercial space including space for affordable start-ups, co-working and local entrepreneurs
• Opportunities for people to learn new skills, access jobs and thrive
• New homes including affordable homes