A calm space for neurodivergent passengers and others who find busy transport environments overwhelming has opened at Ealing Broadway station as part of a Transport for London (TfL) trial which could lead to similar facilities being introduced across the network.
The low-stimulation space opened today (4 September 2026) and will remain at the station until at least 2 October 2026.
Situated beyond the ticket barriers, it includes an acoustic shelter designed to reduce surrounding noise and fixed seating. There is also room for wheelchairs, mobility aids, buggies and assistance animals.
TfL told EALING.NEWS it chose Ealing Broadway because its ground-level layout made it easier to find a suitable place for the pod. Its position near the ticket barriers also means it can be seen by station staff throughout the day.
TfL said the results would help it decide whether to install the pods at other stations, including those below ground.
Mark Evers, who leads customer insight, strategy and experience at TfL, said: “Everyone should be able to travel confidently and independently across London, and we know that busy environments can sometimes pose a barrier and be overwhelming, particularly for our neurodivergent customers.
“These trials will help us understand how we can better support customers who might need to take some time out when using our services.”
Feedback will be collected through a questionnaire accessed by a QR code at the pod, visits by TfL’s Community Engagement Team, customer service comments and site reviews.
The charity Autistica will also gather responses from a panel of people with lived experience. It previously worked with neurodivergent people through workshops, focus groups and surveys to help shape the trial.
Dr Amanda Roestorf, director of research at Autistica, said: “For many neurodivergent Londoners, a calm space can be the difference between avoiding the Underground and travelling with confidence.
“These spaces offer a vital safe space to pause, regulate, and continue their journey independently.”
TfL will use the feedback to decide whether and how calm spaces could be introduced more widely. A separate eight-week trial is also planned at the London Transport Museum in Covent Garden this autumn.
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