Wood Lane Station, London
- Client: London Underground in partnership with Westfield
- Principal designer: Ian Ritchie Architects
- Principal engineer: Waterman Civils Ltd
- Principal contractor: Costain
About the project
Wood Lane Station is the first tube station to be built on an existing line in 70 years. It is the result of a major partnership between London Underground and Westfield, delivered as part of the integrated transport strategy for Westfield.
It was a complex project, in terms of procurement, design, construction, safety and adherence to numerous building regulations. The result is an elegant two-storey steel and glass structure, including a suspended 25 metre glass screen façade to Wood Lane. Night-time illumination lends a theatrical quality, both inside and outside the station.
The site was extremely tight, located above existing Central Line cuttings and tunnels and enclosed by a 19th century brick viaduct carrying the Hammersmith and City Line. These lines continued to operate, meaning construction had to take place at night, with most elements prefabricated or preassembled.
The station provides step-free access to the trains. Two 21-person lifts serve each platform, with Braille, audio and visual information. Heat recovery systems and other energy conservation initiatives have been used, a relatively new step for transport infrastructure.
The station provides excellent facilities for current passengers and staff, as well as looking ahead to future developments and infrastructure upgrades.
Judges' comment
"Creating infrastructure for the new Westfield shopping centre resulted in major construction challenges that were successfully met."
