Work to refurbish 'disgusting' bus station begins

Work to refurbish a major Surrey bus station has begun.

Developers Berkeley told the BBC that more than £4m was being invested in creating a "modern, high-quality transport hub" in Guildford town centre.

The new bus station is to include a new canopy, refurbished concourse, new waiting rooms, upgraded toilets and improved office facilities, it added.

A new bus stand will also help improve capacity, with work expected to be completed by the end of 2026.

Local resident Steve Lewis told BBC Radio Surrey that the current bus station was rundown and dirty and that the refurbishment was a good use of money.

Linda, who spoke to the BBC at the bus stop, said that the site was "disgusting" and full of pigeons.

"It needs to come down," she said. "It is about time we had a new bus station".

Commercial Road has been closed to traffic – except for buses, emergency services and construction vehicles – while work takes place.

Seven existing bus stands are also to be shut, with temporary replacement stands in Onslow Street and North Street.

Pedestrian access to the bus station site will be maintained throughout the works.

Berkeley said: "These changes are an important step towards creating a welcoming and efficient bus station for Guildford.

"We're grateful to Guildford's residents, businesses and passengers for their patience and support while these improvements take place."

The developers added that works will extend to the southern end of Commercial Road and part of North Street from October 2026 to deliver the pedestrianisation of North Street and create a more attractive town centre environment.

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