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Green light for Leicester station’s £22m revamp

Heritage | News

Planning permission

Planning permission and listed building consent for the £22m major transformation of Leicester’s Grade II-listed railway station have been granted, with the help of our heritage specialists.

Project overview

The ambitious project, which will modernise the station while restoring parts of its historic character, has been designed by AHR and is being led by Leicester City Council in partnership with Network Rail, East Midlands Railway, Arcadis and SLC Rail and SLC Property.

Once complete, the station’s main entrance will move from London Road to a new pedestrianised plaza on Station Street, providing more direct access to the city centre.

Accessibility enhancements

The glass-roofed porte-cochère, currently used for vehicle access, will be overhauled to provide a place for cafes, bars and retail. Vehicle pick-up and drop-off points, including those for hackney cabs, will be moved to the rear of the station, near Fox Street, improving access for travellers.

To enhance accessibility, a new curved ramp, steps and lift will lead passengers to the revamped concourse and ticket hall, which will feature a wider ticket barrier to improve passenger flow. Secure bike storage will be added to promote sustainable travel in the city.

Public plaza

Outside, a larger public plaza will include rainwater gardens and new tree planting. The statue of East Midlands-born travel pioneer Thomas Cook will be relocated to a more prominent location.

Heritage aspects

Adam Partington, heritage partner, who led on heritage aspects of the application, said: “This ambitious redevelopment is designed to blend heritage with modern transport needs, and the works will enable the Grade II-listed station to continue to perform its primary function as a sustainable transport hub well into the 21st century.

“By re-orienting the station entrance towards the city centre, the project will create a welcoming new gateway that improves passenger flow and public access. The scheme will also generate several enhancements to the station’s architecture, including the partial restoration of the original proportions of the booking hall and the restoration of windows to the northern elevation of the porte-cochère.

“The Grade II-listed gate piers from the former Midland Station will be relocated within the redevelopment to preserve their original orientation and architectural significance, while also celebrating their role as part of the station’s historical gateway. The relocation of the statue of Thomas Cook will enhance its visibility as a commemorative public art piece.”

Funding details

The £22m project will benefit from £17.6m from the government’s Levelling Up Fund, with the rest being made up by Leicester City Council.

Station history

Leicester railway station was opened in 1840 by the Midland Counties Railway and rebuilt in 1894 and 1978. It is on the Midland Main Line, which runs from London St Pancras to Sheffield and Nottingham.

Construction start

Construction is due to begin Spring 2025.

Published: 9th October 2024
Area: Heritage

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