The new Gravesend Bus Hub is the third and final phase of the Gravesend Transport Quarter master plan; a series of improvements bringing a fully integrated sustainable transport network to the town centre.
The improvements include four new bus stops in Barrack Row, more pedestrianised space and prioritised crossings, new public toilets, two Fastrack stops and Sapphire service improvements on Garrick Street. In addition, electric bus charging point infrastructure will be added, along with real-time information screens, new quality seating and gull wing canopies with high quality under-canopy lighting to provide a bright open environment at night.
Initially, our team further developed a concept layout produced by others, which included a two-lane arrangement for buses. Whilst this layout maximised space for vehicles and bus stops, it was considered to provide a poor passenger experience as they would be provided limited waiting space and would have to make additional road crossings to access a central narrow pedestrian island separating the two bus lanes. Our experts shared these concerns the client and, as a result, we then re-designed the scheme with an improved public realm area and ample space for passengers to spread out in this busy town centre location.
We worked closely with Kaner Olette Architects to develop the canopy design and spatial arrangement within the scheme, establish the distribution of street furniture and planting and produce a variety of reports and documents supporting the associated planning application.
Client: Kent County Council
Architect: Kaner Olette, Allen Scott
