Colwyn Bay railway station forecourt

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The railway station forecourt is a key location that could benefit from accessibility improvements. The existing layout is car dominated. It can be a physical barrier for people, particularly those with mobility issues, to access the train station or travel from the station to the town centre.

The area is a key gateway into Colwyn Bay, which visitors navigate when arriving or leaving by train. The existing layout means people may find it unappealing to travel between the train station, promenade, town centre and other parts of the town. There is an opportunity to replace the forecourt carpark with an attractive public square, giving a good first impression of the town centre.

There is also an opportunity to encourage people to travel sustainably, with facilities for cyclists (such as bicycle storage) and pedestrians (such as wider paths) and electric vehicle charging points.

Key issues

Substandard access for pedestrians, with narrow paths and poor links to town centre.
Pedestrian areas in need of maintenance with surfacing and missing tactile paving.
The walking routes are indirect between the railway station and other key areas.
Lack of cycle facilities including routes and parking.

Proposals

Create an improved gateway with a new plaza, incorporating higher quality paving, planting and areas for people to meet and relax.
Provide better connections between the town centre, railway station and promenade by providing new wider paths for pedestrians and cyclists.
Keep taxi and vehicle drop-off areas at the train station.
Relocate existing parking in the forecourt to the former Market Hall site, add extra disabled parking and electric vehicle charging points.
Add secure bicycle parking.
Add new wayfinding signs to make it easier for people to find their way to the key local attractions.