Connected Places Catapult, the UK’s innovation accelerator for transport and the built environment, has opened applications for the next cohort of the Station Innovation Zone, a program designed to support up to eight small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) developing solutions to improve passenger safety and experience. This initiative, now in its fourth year and run in partnership with Network Rail and funded by Innovate UK, provides SMEs with a unique opportunity to test and scale their innovations at Bristol Temple Meads station.
The Station Innovation Zone has already supported 25 companies, with eight progressing to live trials at the station. This year’s program will again select eight firms, each receiving £4,000 to create a trial plan. From these, up to three will be chosen for live trials over six months, with up to £45,000 in funding to support the deployment of their technology at Bristol Temple Meads. Selected companies will also benefit from business development support and opportunities to present their solutions at industry events.
The 2025 cohort will focus on two challenge themes. The first is station weather resilience, specifically tackling the issue of surface condensation and wet floors that reduce slip resistance and increase safety risks. Proposed solutions should aim to reduce reliance on temporary safety measures like floor matting and frequent public announcements, while being sensitive to the heritage and accessibility considerations of the station. Collaboration between innovators is encouraged, as multiple complementary solutions may be required.
The second challenge theme is improving the interchange experience, with a focus on reducing passenger anxiety during disruptions such as delays, cancellations, or last-minute platform changes. The goal is to develop systems or tools that help passengers stay calm, informed, and in control. These could include physical enhancements—like lighting or sensory cues—or digital innovations such as augmented reality. Solutions should also help manage the flow of passengers moving at different speeds to avoid congestion and confusion.
Applications for the program are open until Wednesday, 24 September 2025, and must be submitted via the Connected Places Catapult website.
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