London Waterloo is the country's most used station and is now set to get new toilet facilities as part of a broader programme of work which aims to bring improvements and inclusivity for passengers.
The project will bring a balance in female and male facilities and will also feature a new gender-neutral facility. More baby changing areas will also be added with improvement in access for those with mobility issues or people using pushchairs.
Cem Davis, Network Rail's London Waterloo station manager, said: “We're pleased that passengers and station users at London Waterloo station will soon be able to benefit from new and improved toilet facilities which will make their journeys a lot more pleasant and comfortable.
“One of the main benefits is that we'll be introducing gender-neutral toilets which will improve inclusivity across the station. The refurbishments are due to start in mid-February through to summer 2023.”
Alternative toilet facilities will be available whilst the project is underway and will be located at:
- The Sidings – accessed via the staircase by platform 19 and via the lift opposite platform 24
- Cab Road by station reception
During the work, some of the cycle storage facilities on Cab Road will be removed to make space for the temporary toilets and will be returned during the summer of 2023.
Plans are currently underway to replace the 100-year-old station roof which covers the main concourse alongside plans to improve customer information systems and open the station's new retail offering.
Mark Killick, Network Rail's Wessex route director, said: “We're looking forward to carrying out a wide programme of improvements at Waterloo station to enhance the overall passenger experience, due for completion in spring 2025
“We know that the station needs some love which is why we want to invest and improve the facilities which passengers regularly use. As well as this, we want to provide a lighter and brighter feel to the main station concourse which is why we're replacing and reglazing the roof panels.”
Christian Neill, South Western Railway's service delivery director, said: “As part of our commitment to improving station amenities across our network, it is great to see this investment to provide customers at Britain's busiest railway station with upgraded toilet facilities.”
