Reimagining Transit Spaces: Activating Underutilised Metro Undercrofts into Urban Public Spaces

This study looks at how underused metro undercrofts can be repurposed into lively public & community spaces. As Jan Gehl aptly states, "If you invite people to walk more and use public spaces more, you get more life in the city. You get what you invite," highlighting the transformative power of intentional design in transit zones. As cities expand with rising populations and limited land, reusing existing structures offers a strong method for renewal. Metro undercrofts, often unused empty areas beneath elevated metro stations, provides a unique opportunity for creative urban design with respect to community engagement. These areas are often overlooked, but they hold a significant potential for enhancing cityscapes through the creation of public parks, markets, cultural spaces and most importantly, a pedestrian-friendly zone. The research explores how these transit spaces can be transformed to boost local economies, promote social connectivity and support public mobility in the urban areas. The study also investigates the social & economic advantages of these efforts. The paper concludes that well-planned development of the metro undercrofts can be crucial for revitalising cities, creating more liveable, inclusive & interconnected cities.