A model railway station: implementing a 'kit of parts' solution to Custom House – the only above-ground station on the Elizabeth line's central section

The new Elizabeth line station at Custom House was a unique opportunity for design and construction. It is the only above-ground station on the central section of the line and will welcome millions of visitors to London’s largest conference centre, ExCeL, as well as providing vital connections for the Borough of Newham. A joint team from Crossrail Ltd, Atkins, Arup, Allies & Morrison, and Laing O'Rourke collaborated to develop the striking station design, creating a beacon for both the Elizabeth line and the local community. Faced with many constraints, a ‘kit of parts’ strategy was developed for Custom House’s construction, including prefabricated and standardised components. This approach – where much of the station was built off site – minimised workon site, drove down programme times and costs, and reduced the impact on the local community. The approach also led to Custom House’s excellent health and safety record – one of the best of any Elizabeth line station to date.