Station of the Year, 2017

Organisation name: Gravesend, Southeastern
Description of activity: Very strong vision and a great plan to execute.

The Gravesend Cycle Hub is designed to be attractive
and complementary to the heritage of the area. The key
implementation is secure cycle parking for 220 bikes, and
a further 48 in a drop-and-go facility for commuters in a
hurry. The hub also features a bicycle repair stand, pump
and kit lockers.

There are also state-of-the-art security features: good
lighting, CCTV and clear signage. These features, along
with real-time rail information to ensure cyclists have
access to the latest train information, create a safe and
accessible cycle parking facility that is welcoming and
easy to use. The hub is a direct link from the station to
the town centre and Cyclopark – a unique purpose-built
facility for cycling and other outdoor activities.

Excellent range of partners

The Gravesend Cycle Hub was developed in partnership
with Kent County Council, Gravesham Borough Council,
Network Rail, Sustrans and a local charity, Cyclopark
Trust, to facilitate and encourage cycling as a preferred
means of transport in the local area.

Every level visionary

As well as addressing concerns raised by Southeastern
passengers regarding security and availability of cycle
parking, the project also supports economic growth
in the local area, helps to reduce carbon emissions,
and promotes sustainable active travel. This also
complements the £9.5m Transport Quarter schemes
to improve the pedestrian environment and improve
connectivity between the railway station and the town
centre.

Successful outcomes

Levels of cycle parking have increased by around 48% since
the hub opened. There has also been a corresponding rise
in customer satisfaction – both six-monthly and quarterly
results show that 85% of passengers are now satisfied with the station's facilities.