A Historic Railway Underpass Becomes a Vibrant Gateway

Huyton Underpass is a busy commuter route passing beneath the track at Huyton railway station in Knowsley, sitting on a major road in and out of Huyton Village Centre. Despite its prominence as a key gateway into the town, the Grade II listed archway bridge had grown tired and uninviting over time. Knowsley Metropolitan Borough Council identified the underpass as an opportunity, not just to refurbish a piece of aging infrastructure, but to transform it into something the community could take pride in.

The brief was twofold: improve safety and create something visually striking. The lighting needed to make the underpass feel welcoming and well-lit for both drivers and pedestrians, while also delivering an artistic, eye-catching display that would draw attention to this key entrance to Huyton Village. The Grade II listed status of the archway added an additional layer of consideration, requiring a solution that was sympathetic to the structure while still delivering maximum visual impact.

LITE Architectural selected the Graze Compact Powercore RGBW as the ideal solution for the project. This compact, high-performance exterior linear luminaire is purpose-built to highlight architectural features such as archways and was fitted to the underside of the underpass and its column supports. Multiple luminaire lengths and beam angles allowed for a broad range of surface illumination and grazing, casting the entire tunnel in a vibrant, even glow. The dynamic lights allow the town to program colors and dynamic displays remotely for different occasions and events. The installation is controlled with Pharos.

The transformation has been immediate and significant. The underpass is now a well-lit, visually vibrant commuter route that feels safe and welcoming at any hour. Beyond its functional improvement, it has become a landmark in its own right, an illuminated piece of public art that brings energy and character to the entrance of Huyton Village Centre.

Cllr Tony Brennan, Knowsley Council's Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Economic Development, said the installation had turned the underpass into "illuminated art, bringing attention to the railway station and the town of Huyton," adding that the council couldn't be happier with the result.