Works to improve the space outside Southampton Central Station are nearing completion.

The southern forecourt is now open to pedestrians and for drop offs and pick ups, taxis and buses (U6 and Quay Connect) following a makeover funded jointly by South Western Railway and the government’s Transforming Cities Fund.

The improvements include:

  • New bus facilities – including dedicated bus stops and improved bus accessibility;
  • Passenger waiting lounge – high quality waiting area for passengers using buses, taxis and for those travelling to the cruise terminals, designed to complement the art deco style of the station building;
  • Provision of e-scooter and e-bike for onward journeys into the City Centre and beyond;
  • Dedicated taxi facilities – a taxi rank for up to five vehicles within the forecourt, with a taxi waiting area on Western Esplanade for up to 10 vehicles;
  • Improved pedestrian access - dedicated crossing points within the forecourt with improved disabled parking and access;
  • High quality public realm – forecourt re-surfaced with high quality materials.

Some finishing touches are still on-going before the scheme is completed but the forecourt will not need to be closed for these.

Councillor Keogh, Cabinet Member for Environment and Transport commented: “We are delighted with the progress of the improvements to the south side of Central Station.

"Transport access has now been fully restored to the forecourt and when the finishing touches to the scheme have been made it will provide a very attractive welcome to the city centre for rail passengers.”

Peter Williams, Customer and Commercial Director at South Western Railway, said: “South Western Railway welcomes the progress of the station forecourt scheme which is now fully available for customer use.

"There has been significant investment in Southampton Central, one of our most important flagship stations, and this will both improve access to sustainable travel and help reduce local emissions and traffic. 

"We look forward to continuing to work with Southampton City Council and other local transport providers to promote better integration between rail, bus, taxi, walking and cycling, linking the station to the port and the city’s commercial, leisure and residential areas. “