Next phase of £34m Middlesbrough station revamp scheme approved

The aim is to create a "more welcoming environment"

The second phase of a £34m project to save Middlesbrough's railway station from more disrepair has been approved.

The scheme will see the main entrance at the gothic-style station moved and new office space created.

The Undercroft will be demolished and two new staircases will be built along with a pedestrian walkway.

The first phase of work, which saw the platform extended for the new LNER service to London, was completed in December 2021.

The £34m funding for the overall project is coming from the government, Tees Valley Combined Authority and Network Rail.

Transport consultancy firm Systra said it hoped to create a "more welcoming environment" and revive an under-used section.

A new entrance will be created at the centre of the station's ticket hall building.

Two open-plan offices will be built on either side of the central passageway.

The platform at Middlesbrough train station was extended to accomodate the new Azuma service

The first direct Middlesbrough to London train route started in December. It is hoped the once-a-day service will become more regular.

A further phase will also see a new platform three built to the north of platform two to increase the number of trains the station can hold.