Tuesday, 1 September 2015

Crossrail sets a challenge for HS2 and HS3

Original post updated with release of HS2 plans

Crossrail Place, in the North Dock of Canary Wharf, sets a high standard for railway stations. With ideas for an eventual HS3 after HS2, we should expect designs that give 'balm to the soul' to quote the late great Humphrey Lyttelton.



The station beneath the dock is capped by a splendid roof garden. It's a refreshing oasis in a desert of concrete, steel, and glass. The greenhouse roof has panels which can adjust their thickness depending on temperature requirements.



If it's any encouragement then grander plans for the HS2 Euston terminal as reported in The Guardian (picture below) are a good sign, even if it delays build. The original was of little imagination.



If we have more jazz in our railway infrastructure I think Humphrey would be pleased, and our souls inspired.