Passengers using one of south London’s busiest stations – Peckham Rye – are set to benefit from a package of improvements being delivered by Network Rail and Southern Railway, designed to reduce congestion, improve passenger flow and cater for future growth.
A ‘hidden’ corner of the station’s booking hall that previously held cash machines will be revealed for the first time in 30 years when work starts next month.
The main ticket machine will be moved into this corner, creating more space for passengers and paving the way for further improvements over the next 12 months including additional station entrance doors and more ticket gates.
Foundations will be laid for a future replica of the station canopy that was removed in 1961. This work is being completed ahead of Southwark’s Council separate project to lay the surface of their new public square at the front of the station.
Passengers will also benefit this summer from additional train information screens. These will be located further along platforms 1 and 2 to encourage people to use the full length of these platforms and the trains when they board. This should reduce crowding, making journeys easier for everyone.
Next year, Network Rail will create more space on some narrow sections on platform 3 and 4 and refurbish the platform canopies, improving the environment for waiting passengers.
Andy Piper, Govia Thameslink Railway’s railway head of Gatwick and London stations, said: “I’m looking forward to seeing these improvements at Peckham Rye take shape. We’ve heard from our customers just how much of a difference these changes will make, bringing huge benefits through making the station easier to travel through and with less congestion.”
Andrew Wood, Network Rail’s Senior Commercial Scheme Sponsor added: “These improvements at Peckham Rye will make a real difference for passengers, creating more space, easing congestion and making it quicker and easier to move through the station.
“This is an important first step in preparing the station for future growth while also enhancing the environment for the thousands of people who use it every day. I’d like to thank passengers for their patience while we carry out this work.”
Once the cash machine section is removed, available wall space in the booking hall will be used to install information boards, keeping passengers informed about the project while improving the appearance of the station. All work will be completed by summer 2027.
Image credit: GWR
