Cardiff Ian wrote:I’m a bit underwhelmed by the proposals for Central Station to be honest. As a daily user, I’m more interested in the functionality than the aesthetics and at first glance it appears that the only major benefit is the increased gate line width (albeit desperately needed) and better access to platforms 1 and 2. What is really needed is better access to all platforms - the narrow staircases are congested and need replacing in line with what has happened at Reading, New street, etc. Presumably six car trains will be added to the Valley Lines eventually and at this point there will have to be something done?
Maybe i’m just being negative and there is improved access to all platforms but the plans have not yet been released showing this! At a minimum, hopefully whatever is planned for platforms 1 and 2 can be extended in the future when more funds become available.
I think your concern is spot on, I just think they haven't worked out or at least not published that level of detail yet. There needs to be an additional number of platforms as well surely, will 8 cut it for the next 20 years or so?
I also think they've purposely only showed the back because any images of the the front will give too much detail, or raise too many questions, about what's going on with the new bus station and how it will link to Central Station, which you'd think since they knew this announcement was coming is being working design wise currently.
Right now I'm just happy it's moving forward. The City Region body is starting to work on things, and that's really pleasing in itself.