Blackburn Bus Station
Overview
The enclosed glazed structure creates a naturally vented and heated environment with the bus apron on one side, with automatic doors that only open when a bay is occupied by a vehicle. The 90m-long building is supported bysix ‘sculptural loops’ which have been ‘inspired by cotton weaving looms’.
Key elements of the new building include: a counter area at the hub building providing verbal and printed public transport information; large information screens on arrival directing passengers to bus stands; smaller screens at the stands showing scheduled or real time departures; a Journey Planning Unit where passengers can buy and top-up NoWSTAR smartcards; an ATM cash machine; female, male and disabled WCs; a “grab and go” food and drink vendors and newsagents; seating areas for passengers to await departures; and internal and external CCTV controlled and monitored within the building.
Owners of the adjacent shopping centre, The Mall were planning a new entrance and appointed Simons Construction so we established weekly coordination meetings with Simons covering aspects such as deliveries and planning.
Additionally, our site adjoined the temporary bus station which accommodated over 10 bays. Robust traffic management plans were implemented, supported by regular dialogue with Highways and the bus operators to ensure the bus station continued without disruption.
Awards
Shortlisted for a RIBA North West Award 2017
Regional Finalist in the Civic Trust Awards 2017
23 Work opportunities created 
99.2% Local workforce 
39/50 Considerate Constructors score
Key Challenges
The design imposed tight restrictions on set-up as the architecture was all about creating clean lines of sight. All joints had to meet with less than 2mm tolerance and nothing could move out of line over a 60 metre building.
There were four elements which worked together – perimeter structural glazing, internal and external GRP cladding/soffits, 1.5×1.5 metre internal paving and secondary steel work for bus bay doors.
Establishing a quality assurance regime was essential to deliver the vision and the site management team carried out daily inspections, supported by our in-house Clerk of Works undertaking quality audits.
Added Value
The bus station had been severely delayed and the Council faced pressure from local businesses and residents to get the facility open.
Following surveys and inspections, we developed a revised 36 week programme which allowed for remedial works, along with progressing the new build.
A firm opening date was agreed and achieved, enabling the Council to fulfil its promise to the Blackburn with Darwen community.