A new bus station in Heckmondwike, West Yorkshire, replaces outdated facilities with expanded capacity and modern amenities. The project, completed by Stephen George + Partners (SGP), adds two extra bus stands and upgrades the waiting area, toilets, and real-time information displays. It also includes a Changing Places facility, a first for the region’s bus stations.
Key improvements for passengers and the community
The station’s design prioritizes accessibility and sustainability. A double-height waiting area with natural light, seating, and real-time service updates sits under an elliptical roof. The building’s exterior uses York stone cladding and large glazing to blend with the town’s architecture, while a green roof and solar panels reduce energy use. Outdoor spaces feature new planting, benches, and improved footpaths to create a welcoming public area.
SGP involved local residents and stakeholders early in the process, ensuring the final design reflected community input. The firm’s Alistair Branch noted that the project was meant to be “theirs”—a landmark the town could be proud of. Public feedback shaped details like seating placement and accessibility features.
One standout detail is the station’s sustainable urban drainage system, which manages rainwater efficiently while supporting the region’s broader push for greener transport. The project also includes better cycle parking to encourage walking, biking, and bus use as part of the Weaver Network, a new transport system linking buses, trains, and future mass transit across West Yorkshire.
A model for regional connectivity and growth
The station is the first under the Weaver Network brand, a regional initiative to improve bus reliability and capacity. Funded by the West Yorkshire Combined Authority, it’s part of the A638 Sustainable Travel Corridor Scheme, which aims to boost economic ties between Dewsbury and Cleckheaton. The goal is to make buses a more attractive alternative to cars, reducing congestion and emissions.
SGP’s work on the project aligns with its growing transport sector, which includes recent bus stations in Halifax and Stevenage. The firm’s portfolio spans values from $300,000 to $40 million, covering interchanges, car parks, and innovation centers. The Heckmondwike station reflects the firm’s approach to blending functionality with community engagement, a strategy that has earned recognition in past projects.
Community Involvement and SGP’s Expanded Transport Portfolio
This ensured the final structure incorporated their suggestions, reinforcing a sense of ownership among the community. The project’s approach aimed to create a facility that residents would identify with and utilize regularly.