Llandudno train station plans unveiled

The station was built in 1858 and the plan is to restore and reuse the Victorian structures

Plans to revamp Llandudno railway station are being unveiled at a public exhibition in the Conwy seaside town.

If the plan goes ahead there would be a refurbished concourse and waiting area, more parking, extra bike room, two bus-stops and a new taxi drop-off point.

There would also be wheelchair access and energy efficient technology such as a rainwater harvesting system, ground source heat pumps and solar panes.

Built in 1858, the station is used by about 270,000 passengers each year.

The proposal has been jointly developed by Network Rail, North Wales Joint Transport Board (Taith), Conwy County Borough Council, Arriva Trains Wales and the Welsh Assembly Government.

Mark Langman, route director for Network Rail, said it was "driven by a vision to transform the railway in Wales".

"If delivered, it will mark a huge improvement for Llandudno," he said.

"Support from the people of the town is vital to make this possible and we welcome the public in having their say."

The original Victorian structures of the station would be restored and reused.

Mr Langman said Llandudno was "poised to be a strategic transport hub by linking the town to the rest of north Wales and beyond".

'Economic boost'

He said there had been a steady increase in passenger demand over the years, and the proposed improvements would "cater to this growth and encourage sustainable travel".

Conwy council leader Dilwyn Roberts said the improvements would help people in the town who use public transport on a daily basis, as well as visitors.

"It will help boost economic development of the area," he said.

"This is an exciting project for Llandudno, which the council will be very pleased to be part of," he added.

Catherine Casey, project manager with Arriva Trains Wales said everyone "irrespective of disability, gender and race" should get involved so that all needs are taken into account.

"The project will provide much needed improvements and new facilities including greater provision of service information, CCTV and improvements of access.

"It will all contribute to a station fit for the 21st century, encouraging more people to travel by train," she added.

The public exhibition will be at Venue Cymru on Tuesday (1300-1430 GMT).

Anyone unable to attend can see the proposals by emailing [e-mail] or ringing 0845 711 4141.