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.

HS3 could build on Crossrail's fine example

Crossrail and the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) have demonstrated first class thinking by using the spoil from tunnelling under London to expand wetlands at Wallasea Island. Avocets are one of the beneficiaries, and that is fitting because they form part of the RSPB logo.

Avocet kneeling allowing chicks to find shelter
under wing © Crossrail

There is an argument, based on population densities, that HS3 should run north south tunnel under London with a loop to the east. It would complement Crossrail's east west route.

Imagine using the spoil to build Boris Island Airport and, rather than filling hard earned tunnel space with ballast, providing additional facilities for other services.