Contract signed for Swansea rail station

A drawing of how the revamped station will look

Work is to begin on upgrading Swansea's railway station after the awarding of the first contract.

Strategic Team Group (STG) will build a larger concourse and renovate the station front, add an entrance and refurbish the platform canopies.

The improvements are led by the Welsh Assembly Government, Arriva Trains Wales, and Network Rail.

Deputy First Minister Ieuan Wyn Jones said passengers will be "very proud" of their brighter and safer station.

The upgrade is also supported by Swansea Council.

The council said it would help boost Swansea's public transport network as the scheme sits alongside ongoing works to refurbish the city's Quadrant interchange.

Amanda Hoyland, route enhancement manager, Network Rail said, "This marks another step closer to transforming Swansea station and we will also be boosting this investment by upgrading the electrical system and structures in the platform area.

"Station improvement in Wales is made possible because of a shared vision and we welcome that much-needed and continued support because Wales relies on rail."

Ian Bullock, customer services director at Arriva Trains Wales said the improvements included new facilities, CCTV and better access "all of which contribute to a station fit for the 21st Century and we hope will encourage more people to try the train".

Councillor Chris Holley said, "The revitalisation of the railway station is great news for Swansea, the local economy and the High Street area in particular."

He said the council and its partners have always recognised the importance of investing in what is an important gateway to the city.

As well as a larger concourse area with improved passenger facilities, there will be new waiting shelters, booking office with extra ticket vending machines, toilets, digital information boards, shops and CCTV cameras.

The station environment will also be significantly improved with refurbished canopies and modernised fittings that will blend in with existing architecture.

The improvements will be carried out with minimal disruption to passengers and extra steps will be taken to keep the station open at all times.