Our Work
New way of travelling
When BOC, part of The Linde Group, partnered with Honda and Forward Swindon to develop the UK’s first public hydrogen refuelling station, they needed a signage specialist who could meet both technical and creative demands.
That’s where Signs Express (Sheffield) came in.
Located at Honda’s manufacturing site in Swindon, the station represents a huge leap forward for sustainable transport — allowing hydrogen-powered vehicles to refuel in the same way and time it takes to fill a traditional petrol car.
Contact us on:
📞0114 332 7834
✉️ gareth.sheffield@signs-express.co.uk
Challenges and Solutions
From the start, it was clear this project wouldn’t be a simple one. The main challenge was to design and install a bespoke screening system to safely conceal the station’s mechanical components — including compressors, a heat exchanger and various pipework — without compromising access or safety.
The screen also had to look good. As a public-facing installation, the visual finish needed to reflect the innovation behind the technology and the strength of the partnership between Honda, BOC and Forward Swindon.
To achieve this, we created a robust structure made entirely from steel and aluminium, minimising fire risk while providing long-term durability. A large 180° gate was incorporated into the design to allow maintenance access to the hydrogen cylinders. Every part of the system was built to exact specifications and engineered for precision.
Our Sheffield team handled every stage of the process: from the initial site survey and design through to material specification, fabrication, and on-site installation.
The project demanded careful coordination and a high level of accuracy. Spanning around 15 metres long, 1 metre wide, and 2.4 metres high, even the smallest alignment issue could have thrown off the overall look.
The graphics were applied offsite to ensure a perfect finish. Because the design flowed continuously across multiple panels, there was no room for error — each section had to line up precisely once installed. Our installers worked meticulously to ensure every panel and fixing matched the drawings exactly, achieving a smooth, flush finish all around.

The Outcome
The finished installation does more than just hide the inner workings of the hydrogen station. It creates a safe, clean and professional environment for users, while the branded graphics provide clear visibility for the partners behind the initiative.
As a visual centrepiece, the screen has a dual role: functional protection and brand promotion. It keeps the technology safely enclosed while showcasing the forward-thinking collaboration that brought the station to life.
The project was completed on schedule and unveiled at the official opening on 20th September, ready to welcome the next generation of sustainable vehicles.
The Swindon hydrogen station, positioned halfway along the M4 between London and Swansea, is more than just a one-off. It’s the first open-access hydrogen refuelling station in the UK — a model for future installations that will make hydrogen-powered transport more accessible across the country.
As hydrogen continues to gain ground as a clean, zero-emission fuel, the infrastructure behind it will play a crucial role. For us at Signs Express Sheffield, it was a privilege to contribute to a project that’s helping pave the way toward a more sustainable future.

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