It seems that the advertising board that replaced the departures board at Euston Station has been updated to be… a departures board.
The departure board under test – Image, Network Rail
With the adverts switched off after a backlash from passengers, the board has sat dark, with passenger information given by a number of smaller departure boards.
Network Rail will switch its screen back on as part of a trial to provide clearer and more visible travel updates for passengers. Testing has now commenced to display live travel information on the large screen where the station’s departure boards used to be. The former advertisement board will give passengers live updates about their train services.
It is planned that from the 16th December, the screen will be fully activated. During the testing phase of the screen, passengers are advised to continue to refer to the screens in the middle of the concourse for accurate travel information. Messaging about the testing will also be displayed in the station to keep passengers fully informed.
The improvements are being made in response to feedback from passengers wanting to see a return of a large focal point on the concourse for travel information.
In Quotes
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said:
“I’m pleased to see Network Rail taking action and making progress on its five-point plan to alleviate some of the issues faced at Euston – particularly at this time of year, when the festive period brings an increase in passengers.
“We’ve been clear the station simply hasn’t been good enough for customers, and that’s why we recently tasked Network Rail with making immediate improvements to address crowding and give passengers the experience they deserve.”
Gary Walsh, Network Rail’s West Coast South route director, said: “
After listening to our passengers, we’re pleased to launch a trial to display travel information on Euston station’s large screen this week. Our five-point plan is all about making quick and effective improvements to make journeys smoother for everyone and we’re really pleased to be able to deliver this in time for the busy festive travel period.”
“While initial testing starts on Wednesday evening this week, we’re urging passengers to continue to use the screens in the middle of the concourse for accurate travel information. We’ll let passengers know when the large screen is fully up and running, which we expect to be from next week.”
Building on small improvements, whilst trying to kick the Euston rush
If you’ve never been to Euston Station, it can be… challenging – especially when train are annoued – an it seems half of the station is rushing just for that train. And it can get dangerous, with people running for a seat.
Network Rail, along with Avanti West Coast and London Northwestern have tried some things, including allowing the earlier boarding of trains to alleviate the rushes, whilst allowing passengers to take their time – whilst meeting their trains
When surveyed by Network Rail staff, the response from passengers who’ve been able to board trains earlier has been positive, with many people expressing an improvement to their travel experience. By allowing passengers to board at a more relaxed pace, early boarding has created a calmer station environment, especially during peak times.
It’s going to take a little more than that to make things better overnight but having the big screens back will be welcome – especially in the runup to the Christmas holidays – where there is major work planned at the station.
For more information about travelling to and from London Euston station this Christmas, passengers can visit www.networkrail.co.uk/wcml.
Because, no matter how many nice signs there are, you will need to plan ahead this festive season.
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