Controversial adverts to be reintroduced at Euston station

Advertising is set to return to a controversial large screen above the concourse at Euston railway station, Network Rail has confirmed. The Government-owned company faced criticism in 2024 for displaying adverts on the 15-metre wide, four-metre tall screen, which had replaced the London station’s main train information board to generate revenue.

Advertising on the screen ceased in October 2024 after then-transport secretary Louise Haigh ordered Network Rail to improve its management of Euston amid concerns about overcrowding.

On Thursday, Network Rail announced a two-week trial of using the screen’s "outer sections" for adverts will begin on Monday. The pilot, it stated, has been "developed using feedback from customers and stakeholders" following "lessons learned" in 2024.

The central section of the screen will be retained for providing information to passengers.

Network Rail said any future revenue generated from advertising “will be reinvested into improvements benefiting passengers”.

It announced a series of other schemes at the station this spring, including upgrading the assisted travel lounge, installing more seats, and building a new customer service hub.

In September 2023, regulator the Office of Rail and Road (ORR) issued an improvement notice to Network Rail in relation to Euston, accusing the company of failing to prevent safety risks from “unacceptable” overcrowding.

The ORR found Network Rail complied with the notice in December of that year, but concerns about the station continued.

Watchdog London TravelWatch said in October 2024 that “last-minute announcements” caused passengers to “rush to platforms”, and staff “appear overwhelmed by the sheer numbers of people”.

Network Rail has introduced a series of measures aimed at improving the station, such as longer boarding times, clearer signage and layout changes.