Leighton Buzzard station’s new floor tiles are powering two USB enabled benches to charge portable devices and a digital data screen.

Technology company Pavegen which developed the walkway says it has also created a mobile app to reward passengers for passing over the tiles, which could help encourage footfall at stations.

The project is backed by the Department for Transport funded ‘Live Labs’ innovation programme which is run by local authority group ADEPT.

Live Labs programme director Giles Perkins said: “The untapped footfall energy at our transport hubs represents a real opportunity to provide sustainable energy sources to power bespoke applications, while engaging audiences and encouraging behavioural change.

“This trial will help demonstrate the viability of the technology and could be a step change in the way transport hubs engage with commuters.”

The project is one of eight local authority led Live Labs aiming to transform local places and highways through piloting innovative ideas.

Central Bedfordshire Council’s executive member for community services Ian Dalgarno added: “I am really impressed with how the technology works. It’s our first Live Labs trial to be complete and it is something I think our residents will really engage with.”

Similar kinetic footways have been installed in recent years near Oxford Street in London to power lighting and at the University of Birmingham.

(Photograph: ADEPT / Pavegen)