scope:

All stations include some form of public realm including platforms, concourses and forecourts. The public realm provides the space for people to navigate the stations, access the railway line and utilise the facilities. The public realm is different across the rail network. 

This guidance document sets out the aspirations and principles for all new public realm and public realm renovations or adaptions. The guidance refers to a range of Network Rail and external standards that can help the user with their project. 

The intended audience for the Public Realm Design Guidelines are project design and delivery teams this may include; 

 • Asset Owner- Maintainer; 

 • Contractors/project delivery; 

 • Designers and architects; 

 • Developers; 

 • Engineers; 

 • Project managers; 

 • Project sponsors; 

 • Station managers/ Stations team 

 • Funders; 

 • Others involved in designing public realm for Network Rail. 

As a public document, many more audiences are encouraged to read the guidance and share the ambition. These users may include; 

 • Local Authorities; 

 • Passengers; 

 • General Public; 

 • Transport operators - not just rail operators. Interface with other modes of transport 

 • Utilities Companies

Purpose

The Network Rail Public Realm Design Guidance is intended to provide a consistent approach to the design and quality of public realm across all stations.