Mott MacDonald to design transformational Windermere station upgrade

Mott MacDonald has been appointed by Westmorland and Furness Council to design the concept masterplan for the Windermere rail station area, creating a transformational welcome to the Lake District.

The scheme will transform Windermere station into a vibrant, high quality transport hub, improving connections for walking, cycling, taxis and buses, alongside enhanced public realm and clearer wayfinding. Designed in line with Inclusive Design best practice, the project will deliver a heritage sensitive upgrade within the Conservation Area and World Heritage Site, while also exploring opportunities to improve passenger experience, sustainability and climate resilience.

Mott MacDonald is providing overall project leadership, urban design, engineering and engagement, and partnering with Owen Ellis Architects for the station architecture and Donald Insall Associates for the heritage aspects of the scheme.

Part of the wider Windermere Gateway project, the scheme is jointly led by Westmorland and Furness Council, Lake District National Park Authority, National Trust and their developer Urban Splash. The long-term vision is to unlock opportunities for a mix of new homes, jobs, sustainable transport connections and an improved welcome for residents and visitors alike.

Mott MacDonald project lead Tom Roberts said: “We’re delighted to have been selected to lead this landmark project. Windermere is a special place – and we’re excited to develop a station area concept that delivers for local communities, visitors and key stakeholders – whilst drawing on our extensive experience of national and international stations best practice”.

Westmorland and Furness Council leader and cabinet member for the economy Jonathan Brook said: "Sensitively creating an enhanced gateway to the Lake District World Heritage Site, through a redeveloped station and transport hub, is a critical component of the Windermere Gateway project. Creating this vision will put us in a much stronger position when lobbying for funding to make this a reality.

"Working together, the partners are committed to all aspects of Windermere Gateway, and creating a world-class welcome for rail and bus passengers would boost the local transport infrastructure and enhance the experience of travelling for everybody who lives, works or visits this area."

This project will build on the Windermere Gateway Transport Infrastructure SPD (Supplementary Planning Document) adopted by the Lake District National Park Authority in 2021 and be used as a key focus for securing investment for the proposed upgrades.