Doncaster Station

Public Art was central to the transformation of Doncaster Railway Station’s forecourt, with the aim of providing a high-quality public space making an impressive new entrance into Doncaster Town centre for people arriving by train and for the wider public to enjoy.

The overall design concept was developed by Doncaster Council’s planning and landscape teams in conjunction with CB Arts and The Fountain Company Ltd. Graham Goldthorpe Stonemasonry supplied and fixed the specially designed Crystal Black granite facing panels to form three double-faced water-wall features, including the design of a complex stainless steel bracket support system.

The large 50mm thick granite panels have a newly developed textured finish, achieved by close-centred horizontal waterjet cutting and hand pitching, to form a bespoke ‘ribbed’ effect. This unique finish was developed in conjunction with granite supplier Hardscape Ltd in their Bolton factory, specially created to achieve the required agitation of the waterfalls.

The central pedestrian area has a new triangular on plan water feature, clad in 60mm thick smooth faced black granite stallriser panels, capped with large 50mm thick irregular shaped granite pieces fixed at different levels and drilled with 46 No. water outlet holes.

The design is a celebration of engineering and connectivity, reflecting Doncaster’s proud rail heritage. It is a good example of using natural stone to striking effect taking advantage of its design flexibility, inherent durability and aesthetic appeal.