º£½ÇÊÓƵ

The redevelopment of Gloucester Railway Station has reached a key milestone with the completion of major junction improvement works.

Gloucestershire County Council has finished work on a new entrance to the station at Metz Way. The opening of the new entrance will allow for the continuation of further work on the multi-million pound scheme, which is a combined effort between local and national government, the rail industry and Gloucestershire's local enterprise partnership GFirst.

Work on the next stage of improvements on a walking route connecting the station and the city centre with changes to Bruton Way Junction are expected to begin this month.

It is hoped the regenerative project will allow for better bus and rail integration at the station, promote sustainable travel and help economic recovery and renewal.

Plans for the station also include wider improvements to the design of the station building and forecourt and making the underpass to Great Western Road more accessible to wheelchair users and child buggies.

MP for Gloucester Richard Graham said: “I first suggested this important change – good for reducing journey times, taxi fares and air pollution – about six years ago and am delighted that two funding bids work involving five different public bodies and Great Western Rail has finally led to this new entrance and exit.

“It’s also vital to the next stage of improvements at our railway station in the New Year, at the station building, forecourt, original entrance, Bruton Way and underpass. It’s a series of mini projects and congratulate all involved on success so far.”

Network Rail’s western senior project sponsor Daniel Collins said: “We are proud to be working with Gloucestershire County Council, Great Western Railway and other key partners on this important scheme.