London Transport Users Committee – WHERE IS THIS 2004

Description

The Information Design Unit audited National Rail station name signs across London to assess visibility, legibility and illumination from trains, using document review, operator consultation, platform and train audits, and passenger needs assessment. It found no consistent industry standard: operator rebranding often prioritises branding over functionality, while London Underground guidance is more prescriptive. Most signs are readable in daylight from about 6–7 m but are frequently poorly lit at night, mounted too high (commonly ~2.1 m+), spaced too far apart (often 20–30 m), and obscured by window dividers, seat backs, reflections, adjacent trains, vandalism and faded text. Typefaces are generally acceptable but letter heights vary and dark signs lack adequate illumination; few signs are internally lit. On-board aids are inconsistent and cannot substitute clear platform signing. The report recommends standardised specifications—size, height, frequency, placement, colour, reflectivity and illumination—enforced by Network Rail/SRA, with measures such as ≤10 m spacing (ideally 5 m), varied mounting heights (2100 mm and some 1400 mm), large illuminated run-in signs, improved lighting, double-sided signs and anti-graffiti finishes.