CROSSRAIL has agreed an independent panel should review the design of Ealing borough stations.

The announcement was made at the London Assembly’s transport committee meeting last week.

Ealing Council leader Julian Bell said: “We are pleased that, by raising our concerns, Crossrail has had a re-think. This should mean better designs for Ealing Broadway and other stations along the route.”

Ealing Broadway is further along in the Crossrail project process than Acton, West Ealing, Hanwell or Southall. Last month, the council announced it was unhappy with designs for Ealing Broadway and Southall stations.

Calling for re-examination, the council also confirmed it would bring in architects HOK and John McAslan and partners to work on designs.

Ealing wanted to see a visually-striking design to stand as a landmark and enhance the surrounding area.

Cllr Bell said: “We will continue to work constructively to get the high-quality designs befitting of these important local landmarks.”

John McAslan and Partners will work with Crossrail to improve both visual appearance and ease of access to Southall station. The borough wants to consider the station’s contribution to proposed developments at Southall Gas Works, Middlesex Business Park and town centre sites.

A spokesperson for Crossrail said: “We are confident we can resolve the outstanding issues with Ealing Council regarding the design of Ealing Broadway station.

"We have been discussing with the council how best to ensure the front of the station enhances the local area.

"Crossrail’s architects, Bennetts Associates, are refining the design accordingly, which we will be discussing with Ealing.

"A design review remains an option and our wish is to satisfactorily resolve any local issues with the boroughs first.”