APSS transforms first class lounge for Leeds LNER

Lincolnshire-based commercial interiors, fit out and construction firm APSS has completed refurbishment works on the London North Eastern Railway (LNER) first-class lounge at Leeds train station – transforming the project from start to finish in just one week.

The first-class lounge has been designed in-line with the branding of the new Azuma train service, which launched in May of this year at Leeds train station. The Azuma trains are a diesel-electric hybrid and are built using lightweight materials; making them a more environmentally friendly way of travel.

The works included a total fit out of the existing first-class lounge, designing and installing bespoke furniture, as well as decorating the space to fit in-line with Azuma trains.

First-class travellers will now enjoy luxury facilities while visiting the transport hub; with APSS’s in-house joinery team having crafted and installed a new reception desk, coffee station and two interior plasterboard walls.

Leeds train station is one of the first LNER-based train stations to be redesigned following its launch, with the rest following suit throughout the year.

LNER-First-Class-Lounge-Seating-Area by APSS

LNER-First-Class-Lounge-Seating-Area-with-partition-walls-by-APSS-Joinery

LNER-First-Class-Lounge-Coffee-station-by-APSS-Joinery-1050-x-680

As well as designing and fitting out the interior, and creating and installing branded signage, APSS supplied and fitted new lighting across the lounge.

The VIP space will now be open seven days a week for first-class ticket holders, who can also enjoy complimentary refreshments, television screens and free Wi-Fi.

APSS is one of a handful of fit out firms accredited by the Rail Safety Standards Board’s Railway Industry Supplier Qualification Scheme (RSSB’s RISQS), with a four-star rating – meaning it is a reliable and credible supplier able to provide products and services to the Great British Rail industry.

John Bysouth, project manager at APSS said: “It’s an incredible achievement to have turned this project around in just one week – half of the time we would normally expect to turn a project around of this kind.

“The team have worked extremely hard to deliver this project to its high standard and we are over the moon with the results. It’s an exciting time for the British rail industry, with the rolling out of the new Azuma train service and we look forward to continuing our relationship with LNER and furthering our experience and skills within the transport sector.”

Philip Cooke, property project manager at LNER added: “It was a fantastic effort to complete the works within the programme timescales. This is even more evident taking in to account the different trades working within a relatively small space. The finish is absolutely fantastic and the feedback received from customers echoes this.”