Central Station improvements near completion

A project to transform the outside of Exeter Central Station is almost complete.

Improvements at Exeter Central Station's forecourt should be finished by Christmas.

The £660,000 enhancement has been funded by Devon County Council, Exeter City Council and Network Rail, to encourage walking and cycling to the station.

The area outside the station has been developed to be used for seating and a cycle hub, which is proposed to include secure bike storage, bike hire, maintenance and repair facilities

The upgraded layout also includes a new bus shelter, taxi provision, separate drop off and loading bays for up to five vehicles, disabled parking, dedicated space for the local car club, Co-Cars and cycle parking.

Councillor Andrew Leadbetter, Cabinet Member for Economy and Growth, said: “This scheme really has transformed the area outside Central Station and it is now a much more attractive and welcoming environment for everyone arriving in Exeter by rail. It’s a great example of co-operation, which all takes time, however we have now produced something of which the city can be proud.”

Councillor Stuart Hughes, the Council’s Cabinet Member for Highway Management, said: “Commuters will benefit from the cycle hub when it opens, and will make it much easier to travel across the city. Hopefully it will encourage more people to choose to cycle to and from the station and will be an asset to the city as a whole.”

Councillor Jill Owen, County Councillor for St David's and St James, said: “I am delighted that at long last this scheme has happened and it will undoubtedly enhance both Central Station and Queen Street. It is a very welcome facility for Exeter and its travelling public.”

Councillor Rachel Sutton, Exeter City Council’s Lead Councillor for City Development, said: “To many people, this is their first view of Exeter when they step off a train, so it was really important to make an impression. The new works do just that and have really improved the look and feel of the area.”

Patrick Hallgate, route managing director for Network Rail, said: "Exeter is forecast to be among the biggest growth cities within South West of England by 2026. It is vital that we provide a robust railway to support this growth and most importantly, the city’s economy. By working with partners to improve Exeter stations, we are sprucing up the railways’ shop-front, revitalising the city’s environment as well as building Exeter Central into a welcoming gateway."

Devon County Council is currently inviting tenders for the operation of the Cycle Hub at Exeter Central. The business will be supported by Access to Stations Local Sustainable Transport Funds (LSTF) for the first two years. Details of the Invitation to Tender can be found through www.supplyingthesouthwest.org.uk

Access to Stations is a partnership between eight local authorities and sustainable transport charity Sustrans. Working at 20 stations across England the project is increasing travel by foot, bike and public transport to and from railway stations by improving access, and providing comprehensive travel information.

Finishing touches to the forecourt will be added in the New Year when a formal opening will be held.