Hillingdon Council has made significant enhancements to Hayes town centre with the official opening of the Station Road interactive underpass and the completion of a £141,000 refurbishment of Blyth Road car park. These improvements aim to enhance accessibility and travel for residents and visitors.
On Friday, 31 May, the ‘Sound of Hayes’ underpass was officially opened in a ceremony attended by Cllr Eddie Lavery, Hillingdon Council’s Cabinet Member for Residents’ Services, Cllr Janet Gardner, Hayes Town ward councillor, project team members, and David Brough, chair of the Hayes Town Partnership.
The underpass features innovative tunnel lining made from steel, aluminium, and natural pigmented mineral panels, creating a dynamic interplay of textures, sound, and light. The design, inspired by the grooves of vinyl records, reflects the daily journeys of local commuters and honours Alan Blumlein, a prolific British inventor and pioneer of stereo sound recording who worked at EMI in Hayes.
In another upgrade, the Blyth Road car park has undergone a comprehensive refurbishment funded by a £141,000 council investment. Upgrades include the addition of pedestrian walkways, a new coat of paint, column protection, a new electric shutter, re-lined parking bays, and mesh installations to deter pigeons. The car park now also features three disabled bays and dedicated parking for motorcycles.
More than £8.5 million has been invested to date in improving Hayes town centre’s infrastructure including part of TfL’s Elizabeth Line new station development, with funding including contributions to the council from land and property developers, otherwise known as section 106 agreements. These contributions have funded the underpass transformation.
Cllr Lavery said: “Reviving our town centres is a key part of our council strategy and we’re committed to supporting projects that ensure they continue to thrive for generations to come.
“The improvements at Blyth Road are an example of the high-quality infrastructure projects we’re continuing to deliver for residents and businesses across Hillingdon.”
