Stephen George + Partners (SGP) has announced the completion of a new bus station in the heart of Heckmondwike, West Yorkshire. Officially opened by the Mayor of West Yorkshire, Tracy Brabin, the facility replaces the limited amenities available at the previous bus hub. The new station increases the number of bus stands from four to six and provides improved passenger facilities, including a double-height waiting area, glazed stands with safe access to buses, real-time information displays, public toilets, baby changing facilities and a Changing Places suite.
Alistair Branch, Partner at SGP, said: “In partnership with Kirklees Council, West Yorkshire Combined Authority and WSP, SGP has designed this landmark new bus station. Our design aimed to create a contemporary, welcoming building to reflect the sense of pride local people have in Heckmondwike.”
A striking elliptical structure forms the centrepiece of the development, housing the double-height waiting area, seating, toilet facilities and real-time service information. The green roof features circular rooflights that bring natural light into the building, while a raised parapet conceals plant equipment and creates a clean, defined edge to the curved profile. The sweeping canopy covering the outdoor waiting area contrasts with the sculptural form of the main building. Materials such as natural York stone cladding and extensive glazing were selected to reflect the character and tones of the surrounding town centre.
Alistair added: “We worked with our client to engage with the public and other stakeholders early in the design process, as well as re-engaging with interested parties again once planning was submitted, to show how their comments and concerns have been taken on board in the final design. As a landmark project that aims to bring significant benefits to the town and the area, it’s vital that the local community felt part of the conversation and that the finished building is theirs to be proud of and well used.”
Significant attention was also given to the surrounding public realm, with SGP and WSP working to ensure the outdoor environment complements the architecture. New planting, including a green wall, planters, trees and seating areas, has been introduced around the station alongside improvements to surrounding footpaths.
Sustainability was a key consideration throughout the project. The station incorporates air source heat pumps, photovoltaic panels and a sustainable urban drainage system, while enhanced cycle parking helps encourage the use of sustainable transport options.
The development is the first bus station to carry the Mayor’s new Weaver Network branding. The network aims to integrate buses, trains, future mass transit services, walking, wheeling and cycling across West Yorkshire.
Funded by the West Yorkshire Combined Authority, the project forms part of the wider A638 Sustainable Travel Corridor Scheme, which aims to improve connectivity between Dewsbury and Cleckheaton. The initiative is designed to boost economic growth by enhancing bus capacity, reliability and overall passenger experience, encouraging more people to choose public transport.
Since joining SGP, Alistair has helped grow the practice’s transport sector portfolio, which includes bus interchanges, multi-storey car parks, training and innovation centres, and aircraft hangars, with project values ranging from £300,000 to £40m. Previous transport projects delivered by SGP include Halifax Bus Station for West Yorkshire Combined Authority, as well as award-winning schemes such as Stevenage Interchange and Broad Marsh Bus Station and Multi-Storey Car Park in Nottingham.