Terminus of the blue M3 metro line and setting-off point for airport bus 200E, Kőbánya-Kispest station will soon undergo a major refit. Designed by György Kővári, also responsible for Déli station from the same Socialist era, this busy junction has long been a neglected eyesore.
Known by its local acronym of KŐKI, this complex consists of train and metro stations, a shopping centre and a walkway connecting them. A new overpass, renovated lifts and escalators, and step-free access, will all be part of the rebuild. The platforms will also be modernised, to allow double-decker trains to use the line.
The station is on the second-oldest line in Hungary, the original building dating back to the early 1900s. It was attached to the metro line in 1980, when Kővári’s emblematic orangey-red complex was built, comprising ticket offices, grocery stores and food outlets. The station fell into decay towards the end of the 20th century. An overhaul has long been overdue.
