For many travelers, London’s Euston Station was once synonymous with overwhelming chaos. Last year, a massive, 49-foot advertising board loomed over the concourse, contributing to a sense of disorientation and even causing headaches for commuters navigating the already crowded space. Passengers described the station as “hell on earth,” struggling to decipher vital train departure information amidst the visual onslaught.
The outcry was immediate and powerful. Recognizing the detrimental impact on passenger experience, then-Transport Secretary Louise Haigh ordered the colossal screen switched off. It was a decisive move, part of a larger effort to address the notorious “Euston rush” and improve conditions within the station, which had been flagged by rail watchdogs due to severe overcrowding.
Now, a carefully planned trial is set to begin. Limited advertising will be reintroduced to the unused outer edges of the station’s large screen. This isn’t a return to the previous, overwhelming display; the central sections dedicated to crucial train information and customer notices will remain untouched and prioritized.
Network Rail, responsible for the station’s operation, insists this is a measured approach. They are determined to avoid repeating the mistakes of the past, focusing on maintaining comfortable brightness levels and ensuring content doesn’t distract or overwhelm passengers, particularly those with neurodiversity.
The two-week trial will be meticulously evaluated. The results will directly inform whether a more toned-down advertising presence can coexist with the needs of travelers. Any potential revenue generated will be reinvested directly back into the station, fueling further improvements.
The changes at Euston extend beyond the screen. A significant refurbishment of the assisted travel lounge is underway, promising nine additional seats, updated furniture, and enhanced lighting and screens. These upgrades demonstrate a commitment to prioritizing the comfort and accessibility of all passengers.
Louise Haigh, reflecting on the initial removal of the large advert board, emphasized the tangible improvements it brought. She believes the changes made Euston safer, easier to navigate, and more pleasant for everyone. She views these kinds of improvements as a direct result of rail nationalization and advocates for accelerating similar changes across the network.
London TravelWatch, a key passenger advocacy group, will be closely consulted throughout the trial. They previously voiced serious concerns about the customer experience at Euston and welcomed the initial improvements. They emphasize the importance of ensuring advertising doesn’t compromise the clarity of vital train service information.
Amanda Webster-Uz, head of operations at London Euston, affirmed the station’s dedication to delivering meaningful improvements for current passengers while simultaneously planning for the station’s long-term future. The trial represents a delicate balance – a potential revenue stream weighed against the paramount need for a clear, comfortable, and stress-free travel experience.
