Convenient and flexible office space at stations was signalled today as Network Rail agreed a joint venture with The Office Group, the Lloyd Dorfman-backed office space provider, to install drop-in work space at its major stations.

Network Rail and The Office Group will work together to create a network of flexible office space at stations nationwide, initially at five London locations. The first will open at Paddington, situated within MacMillan House, accessed via Platform 1. It will accommodate up to 250 people in a range of flexible office sizes.

The deal has been struck as part of Network Rail's vision to enhance the passenger experience by creating stations that are destinations in their own right. It will tap into the growing mobile working trend as well as providing a convenient alternative working environment. As part of the offer, clients at the rail hub offices will be able to take advantage of The Office Group’s other properties. These are all design-led work spaces, giving clients a network of satellite offices to work out of.

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The new rail hub offices also feature The Club – a great value office space membership scheme, from The Office Group, aimed specifically at entrepreneurs and mobile workers. Designed to offer a shared or private working area similar to airport business lounges, the space will feature stylish meeting rooms, superfast broadband and receptionists to deal with mail, telephone and switchboard enquiries.

David Biggs, Network Rail's Director of Property, said: "We are constantly looking for ways to improve our stations and unlock the potential for commercial revenue that they hold. The network of drop-in office space created through this innovative joint venture will provide a new and convenient service at stations. Passengers are already able to eat, drink and shop at our stations, so it was only logical that we offered them the opportunity to work here too."

(CD/GK)