Led by Enfield Council, Meridian Water is a large-scale £6bn regeneration project. Spanning 25 years, the programme will bring 10,000 homes and 6,000 jobs to the Enfield area of North London – all within close proximity to the attractive Lee Valley Regional Park.
As well as homes, new public spaces and community facilities, the development now boasts its own railway station. With a sleek, modern design, the station perfectly combines aesthetics and functionality. It features three platforms, lift access, a footbridge and retail space, offering improved connectivity in and out of the area for commuters, residents and visitors.
Engineering consultants Arup and building contractor VolkerFitzpatrick were integral to the project team, with Arup appointed as lead designer and VolkerFitzpatrick overseeing construction. In addition, Arup led the design coordination, managing a multidisciplinary team plus architectural subconsultant Acanthus (later acquired by Scott Brownrigg), headed by Michael Watkins.
To deliver key elements of the lighting design, leading exterior lighting manufacturer DW Windsor was appointed to the project. The brief was to achieve high lighting levels on the station’s stairs and landing areas. The solution needed to ensure the safety of passengers travelling after dark, while also complementing the aesthetics of the station.
Garda illuminated handrails with Garda Pro LED Modules were selected from DW Windsor’s extensive handrail lighting portfolio. Garda Pro is a performance LED solution with asymmetrical distribution. Designed specifically for schemes that require high lighting levels, up to 150 lux, and good uniformity, Garda Pro optimises lighting, performance and cost.
Available in a range of finishes, including brushed stainless steel and powder coated RAL colours, Garda handrail solutions ensure a design that can blend in or contrast with any setting. Meridian Water Station utilises Garda handrails in two distinctly different greys using warm-to-touch paint, ensuring the project adhered to BS8300 to meet the needs of disabled people.
Andrew Bale from VolkerFitzpatrick said: “Meridian Water Station is a prime example of regeneration at its best, offering great rail links in a welcoming environment.
“The project team worked collaboratively to deliver every aspect of the brief, and the results are clear to see.”
David Anstee, Garda Technical Manager at DW Windsor, said: “The project presented an interesting challenge as we had to carry out the installation in multiple phases, as sections of the station were opened across different times.
“Our project management skills were put to good use, ensuring we met all of the deliverables on time and within budget, something we pride ourselves on providing for our clients.”
The station has replaced the outdated Angel Road station in Edmonton. The Meridian Water station has undoubtedly improved the experience of rail passengers, offering an inviting space, ease of use and better amenities.
