Exciting changes are on the horizon for Crawley’s bus station and surrounding areas! Plans for the first phase of the **Station Gateway regeneration scheme** have been approved by Crawley Borough Council’s planning committee, marking a significant step forward in the town’s transformation.
The ambitious project, part of the **Crawley Town Centre Regeneration Programme**, aims to modernise the bus station and adjoining streets, creating a more efficient, attractive, and sustainable transport hub for residents and visitors alike.
What’s Changing?
**Revamped Bus Station**
The heart of the project is a complete overhaul of the bus station on Friary Way. Key improvements include:
– **11 redesigned bus stops** with new shelters positioned down the centre of the site.
– Relocation of bus layover stands to **Haslett Avenue West** and **Station Way** for smoother operations.
**Enhanced Public Spaces**
– **The Martlets** will see new paving, tree planting, seating, and lighting, creating a more welcoming environment for pedestrians.
– While the existing ash trees along Haslett Avenue West will be removed, new trees will be planted to maintain the area’s greenery.
**Improved Traffic Flow**
– The roundabout at the junction of **The Broadway** will be adapted to accommodate longer buses, with layover stands positioned on both sides.
– The **taxi rank** outside County Mall will be relocated slightly along Haslett Avenue West for better accessibility.
**Safer Streets for All**
– **Station Way** will introduce a **20mph zone**, new cycle lanes, and dedicated bus lanes to promote safer and greener travel.
– Modifications to the **Station Access/Station Way signal junction** will improve traffic flow, with buses no longer able to turn right out of the station.
A Boost for Crawley’s Future
The Station Gateway project is a cornerstone of Crawley’s **£14.6 million Growth Programme**, which aims to deliver:
– **7,000 extra jobs**
– **135,000sqm of refurbished commercial space**
– **1,000 new homes** in the town centre and Manor Royal
Council leader **Michael Jones** shared his enthusiasm for the project:
“These proposals are an incredible opportunity for Crawley town centre to boost economic growth and attract future investment, in line with Crawley’s economic recovery plan. It will enormously benefit the residents of Crawley for generations to come – and also reinforces our commitment locally to maintain and protect the vitality of the town centre in the face of wider challenges to retail and services.”
What’s Next?
With planning approval secured, the focus now shifts to bringing these transformative changes to life. The improvements promise to make Crawley’s town centre more accessible, vibrant, and future-ready, ensuring it remains a thriving hub for business, leisure, and community life.
Stay tuned for updates as Crawley embarks on this exciting journey toward a brighter, more connected future!
**Project Timeline:** Phase one underway following planning approval on February 10.
**Location:** Crawley Bus Station and surrounding areas (Friary Way, Haslett Avenue West, Station Way, The Martlets).
Crawley is on the move – and the best is yet to come!