3D visuals of a proposed new layout and future design for Ilkley’s rail and bus station have been presented to the Ilkley Rail & Bus Board.
The plans, which include an in-depth feasibility study and framework master plan, been formulated by award-winning architects and urban design specialists, Landolt+Brown,
The designs were unanimously supported by the Ilkley Rail & Bus Board, comprising Friends of Ilkley Railway Station (FOIRS), Network Rail, Northern Rail, West Yorkshire Combined Authority (WYCA), Bradford Council, Ilkley Business Improvement District (BID), Robbie Moore MP, Climate Action Ilkley, Ilkley Civic Society and Ilkley Town Council, whose shared vision is to create one of the best Town Transport Hubs in the country.
The visionary layout proposal has incorporated the feedback that was collated following a public consultation in 2024 and includes new public toilets, better waiting facilities and seating as well as a new Tourist Information Centre and a community pop up unit for art exhibitions, stalls and educational ventures.
There will be a new secure cycle and cargo bike store and provisions for EV charging and the pavements around the station will be widened with the proposed layout representing a 92% increase in public space.
The significant increase in public realm unlocked by these proposals will allow considerable landscaping enhancements including planting to encourage biodiversity and improve air quality and the introduction of cherry trees which will look beautiful when in bloom in the spring and will provide shade for seating in the summer months.
All elements have been considered by the architects, including the use of York paving stone; a locally sourced natural material that reflects the sandstone of the historic station building and many of Ilkley’s fine civic buildings, as well as well designed, timber-based street furniture which combines traditional materials with a contemporary design aesthetic.
The designs will now be available to view by members of the public at the Clarke Foley Community Hub from 28th April, and members of the Steering Group will be available on Thursday 8th May in the Clarke Foley Café between 4-5pm and 6-7pm to answer any questions.
Stephen Thornton, Chair of the FOIRS Group, is delighted with the proposals and said:
“A huge thank you to Landolt+Brown who have successfully translated our vision for the Ilkley Transport Hub into a viable design proposal. Their expert team specialises in transport-related and complex urban settings and the designs that they have presented to us manage to seamlessly combine functionality, practicality and beauty.
“Under these proposals, the heritage of the station will be preserved and enriched whilst all 21st century requirements of the consumers who use it will be considered. We know that the Ilkley community is going to be very excited to see these new designs and we invite everyone to come and view them at the Clarke Foley Community Hub from Monday 28th April.”
The financial support for the feasibility study and design proposal was made possible thanks to a large grant secured by Sarah Brookfield-Almond, Ilkley BID Manager, from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund which is funded through the government’s National Productivity Investment Fund and managed and administered by Bradford Council, as well as a contribution by Ilkley Town Council.
Sarah Brookfield-Almond said:
“Our rail station is such a wonderful asset for Ilkley, however it conveys little of the elegance of the historic town centre and is an underwhelming arrival and departure point for those living, working and visiting the town and its surroundings.
“Under these new proposals, it will be transformed into an inviting and welcoming transport and community hub which will create a real wow factor for visitors and passengers and a beautiful place to watch the world go by for residents. It will certainly be one of the best rail and bus stations in the country!”
Following public viewing of the designs, all stakeholders will be working together to determine strategies for the delivery, maintenance and management of the project, as well as securing the necessary funding to turn the vision into reality.
Any questions about this project should be directed to FOIRS via email at: friendsofilkleyrs@gmail.com
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