The RSSI Railway Station Design Competition invites participants from the West Midlands to unleash their creativity and innovation by designing the railway station of the future. This competition, organised by RSS Infrastructure, aims to engage students and youth groups in a challenging yet rewarding project that combines design, engineering, and sustainability.
Competition Overview
Participants can choose to design the interior, exterior, or both aspects of a railway station envisioned for 2030. The competition encourages teamwork, allowing up to six members per team.
The key dates for the competition are as follows:
- Registration Deadline: 8th July 2024
- Design Phase: 16th September – 29th November 2024
- Professional Visits: 4th – 22nd November 2024
- Submission Deadline: 6th December 2024
- Judging: Week of 9th December 2024
- Celebration and Awards: Early January 2025
The Challenge
The challenge is designing a railway station for 2030 with no budget constraints, thus allowing participants to fully exercise their imagination. The judging panel will consist of representatives from the West Midlands Apprenticeship Ambassador Network, Women in Rail West Midlands, and various experts from the rail sector, including Young Rail Professionals, Transport for West Midlands, Network Rail, SLC Rail, Colas Rail, and West Midlands Trains.
Judging Criteria
Submissions will be judged based on several criteria, including:
- Design Concept: Creativity and innovation in the design.
- Functionality: The design is practical and usable for future passengers and staff.
- Safety and Accessibility: Measures to ensure the safety and accessibility for all users, including those with disabilities.
- Sustainability: Integration of eco-friendly features and sustainable practices.
- Presentation: The quality of the PowerPoint presentation and optional model showcases the design process and final product.
Submission Requirements
Participants are required to prepare a PowerPoint presentation detailing their thought process and final design. Additionally, they should maintain a diary documenting team activity, challenges faced, and solutions implemented. Teams are encouraged to create posters promoting passenger use of the new station. They may optionally build a model of their design using materials like cardboard, recycled plastics, tins, straws, glue, wood, and fabric.
Awards
Trophies will be awarded to the best designs in the following categories:
- Primary (up to Year 6)
- Year 7 to Year 9
- Year 10 & Year 11
- Year 12 & Year 13
- Year 14 / Foundation (aged 19-25)
- Mixed Ages/Abilities
In addition to the design awards, a “Best Team Player” award will be given to each year’s group, as nominated by the Head Teacher or Youth Leader. All participants will receive a medal and certificate, but only one entry per group from each school or club will be allowed for final judging.
Helpful Hints
To aid in the design process, participants should consider:
- Aesthetics: Visual appeal and innovative architectural elements.
- Safety: Ensuring the station is safe for passengers and staff.
- Sustainability: Incorporating features like natural light, solar panels, and eco-friendly materials.
- Accessibility: Making the station accessible to all, including those with physical and sensory impairments.
Conclusion
The Railway Station 2030 Design Competition is a unique opportunity for young designers to make their mark on the future of public transportation. With no budget limits and a wide scope for creativity, this competition promises to be an exciting journey of innovation and teamwork.
For more information, visit: www.rssinfrastructure.com/railway-station-2030-competition/
