New digital 3D maps help passengers navigate key stations in the South East with ease
Three-dimensional digital maps have been introduced by Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR) to assist passengers, particularly those with disabilities, in navigating key stations across London, Sussex and Bedfordshire with greater ease and confidence.
This innovative project, which is currently being trialled at ten stations, enables passengers to plan their journey in advance using interactive 3D maps.
Available on mobile phones and computers, these maps highlight accessible routes, staircases, lifts and ticket gates, providing a detailed, aerial view of the stations. This ensures that passengers can plan their route from street level to their seat before even arriving at the station.
The initiative will be particularly useful for business travellers who often rely on train stations as part of their busy schedules, ensuring a smoother and more efficient journey.
For individuals with access needs, these maps offer a valuable resource in making travel less stressful and more manageable, helping them to navigate stations with confidence and independence.
Carl Martin, Accessibility Lead at Govia Thameslink Railway, commented:
We understand that for some of our customers, visiting a new station can feel overwhelming. Whether it’s finding essential facilities or navigating between platforms, our goal is to ensure everyone can travel independently and with confidence, regardless of their access needs. We’re really pleased to introduce these new maps as part of our commitment to create a more inclusive and accessible railway. Together with other helpful guides on the assisted travel pages of our websites, they’ll help people plan a smooth and stress-free journey.
Currently, bird’s-eye-view maps are available for all stations served by GTR. However, feedback has highlighted areas for improvement, as some maps were not to scale or difficult to read, especially at larger, more complex stations. The new 3D diagrams address these issues by colour-coding accessible routes and clearly showing different station levels. These enhanced maps can be accessed through National Rail Enquiries or directly via the websites of GTR’s train brands.
The first ten stations to feature these new 3D maps are:
- Brighton
- City Thameslink
- Denmark Hill
- East Croydon
- Elephant & Castle
- Finsbury Park
- Gatwick Airport
- London Blackfriars
- Luton Airport Parkway
- Peckham Rye
These stations were selected based on their high footfall and complex layouts, such as multiple levels or entrances. Denmark Hill, for instance, was chosen due to its proximity to King’s College Hospital, an important factor for many passengers with specific accessibility needs.
If the trial proves successful, there is the potential for more stations to be added to the scheme, further enhancing the accessibility of the rail network for all passengers.
Paul Baker, Sales Director of Global Travel Management, said:
For UK-based business travellers, these new 3D maps are a game-changer. Having a tool that helps with the accessibility and navigation of stations across London and the South East will be invaluable for those who travel frequently, especially when managing time-sensitive trips. This initiative not only supports the needs of disabled passengers but also helps business travellers save time and reduce stress on their journeys.
For information on journeys on GTR routes, please contact your Global Travel Management Account Manager.
