The entire area around the Harderwijk railway station has been overhauled to prepare for the new Randstadspoor metropolitan railway network, which will be integrated in the future. A new tunnel is constructed, which connect motorists, cyclists and pedestrians to the various sections of the town, as well as providing access to the railway platforms. The former railway station building is replaced with a new building, which is located close to the tunnel. In addition, the bus station and a bicycle park accommodating 1,500 bikes are reintegrated into the station environment.
The tunnel entrance is flanked by the railway station building and bicycle park, while the square in front of the railway station links all station-related uses and services and serve to regulate pedestrian traffic. The centre of the square features a staircase and a lift to the tunnel level. The railway station building with its conspicuous awnings and central waiting area is all part of the same structure and constitutes the heart of the Stationsplein.
The retail areas, essential passenger amenities and facilities are located directly along the passenger area between the train and bus sections of the station. The building aligns with both the ground level and the tunnel level, creating an elegant link between the two levels. The wide and low stairs, designed in warm and attractive natural stone, further enhances its aesthetic appeal.
GROUP A is responsible for the design of the new railway station building and surrounding area of Harderwijk (including the bicycle park), as well as for the design of the tunnel and public spaces.