Proposals for a new Scott Brownrigg-designed bus station in Guildford have been submitted for planning. Designed for St Edward, a joint venture between housebuilder Berkeley and investor M&G Real Estate, the new bus station will replace a tired 1980s concourse with a welcoming, well lit, easy to use and safe space with a bold contemporary design.

The design focuses on enhancing passenger experience by providing a new and accessible concourse, high quality covered spaces and waiting facilities, and improved connections to adjacent public realm. Contemporary wayfinding solutions and ‘smart tech’ will streamline passenger flow. Central to the proposals is a revised circulation pattern for buses, allowing the majority of North Street to be pedestrianised and to create space for market spaces and external food and beverage offer.

The scheme forms part of a wider masterplan, designed by JTP, to regenerate a derelict city centre site known locally as the Friary Quarter. The wider scheme includes provision of almost 500 new homes, commercial spaces and a new medical centre. Sustainability benefits include 120 new trees, a 201% increase in biodiversity, bird and bat boxes, bee bricks and electric vehicle charging points on all parking spaces.

Proposals for the new Bus Station are the result of detailed consultation and collaboration with both Guildford Borough Council and St Edward, and form a key component of the overall site strategy and development.

Find out more about the wider masterplan here.