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Who is replacing the roof at Waterloo Station?

journalist

Octavius is the main contractor on the job and will be replacing the glass glazing on the 100-year-old roof. 

Waterloo station aeriel image.
Credit: Network Rail.

The firm is working with Network Rail engineers to renew the glazing on the roofs of the main Concourse and Porte Cochere, the covered passageway over the entrance of the station. 

Work has begun and is expected to continue until Summer 2025

Inside the project 

10,000 individual polycarbonate glazing panes will replace the original Georgian glass. 

They will cover a total area of 11,150 sqm, almost twice the size as the Wembley Stadium pitch.

The new panes will be 50% lighter than the original, reducing the pressure on the structure and easing future maintenance. 

To minimise disruption for train-goers, Octavius have designed a temporary external roof structure that will sit over the roof, moving rain into the rainwater catchment system. 

Work will also be done to the link canopy, inspection walkways will be replaced and rewiring and relighting will be done for both roofs. 

Further station plans

The project will be completed in phases.

The scaffolding deck will move across the concourse as the team progresses, and eight temporary staircases have been built around the station. 

The restoration is a part of Network Rail’s wider Improving London Waterloo station programme, that it has planned for the next few years. 

Work for the programme involve: 

  • More comfortable wood-seating for passengers waiting for trains, adding to the 480 seats, plus 120 seats on platforms.  
  • Refurbishment of station toilets, including more female and gender-neutral facilities.
  • Addition of new brand and food outlets. 

“We’re delighted to be supporting Network Rail in delivering this programme of vital renewal and refurbishment works that will give this historic station a reliable and safe roof for many more years,” said Matt Smith, managing director for rail at Octavius

If you enjoyed this article, check out Bristol Airport expansion: new passenger lounges this summer. 

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