Train passengers travelling to and from Gatwick Airport now benefit from more reliable and punctual journeys, easier access and reduced congestion after this major station redevelopment.

JBA working for the client VolkerFitzpatrick became involved in this project from an early stage working closely with Network Rail to develop a detailed design prior to construction, which began in autumn 2012. The result was a scheme that gave the station facilities a much needed revamp, complementing the improvements Gatwick is making to the airport.


The company was commissioned by Network Rail to build Platform 7 and passenger circulation hub, complete all track and signalling modifications, install new escalators and lifts on platforms 5 and 6, as well as resurface all platforms and a 
footbridge that crosses the Brighton main line.


The newly constructed Platform 7 accommodates 12 car long trains and 1,000m of new plain track rail line allows fast trains from London to travel through the station more quickly.

A ten week blockade of platform 6 was provided to enable the major refurbishment of the station concourse and platforms 5 and 6 to help improve the passenger experience. This included laying new flooring and installation of escalators and stairways, providing a more open and light space. New concourse supporting columns were also installed prior to the removal of existing supports. Whilst the concourse was being transferred onto its new column supports, temporary works were designed and installed to support the 500 tonne load of the existing concourse ring beam.

The signalling commisioning and footbridge spans were replaced during a five day blockade of all lines at Gatwick over Christmas 2013. In order to renew the signalling interlocking of the Gatwick Area to the SmartLock SSI model, VolkerFitzpatrick undertook the construction of 10 new deep under-track crossings using tunnelling and open cut techniques. The auxiliary transformers and the DNO isolation transformer were also upgraded to provide additional capacity for the 650V signalling supply.

All improvements were successfully delivered without impacting on normal station and airport operations and were officially opened on Monday 3rd February 2014 by Transport Minister, Baroness Kramer.