Newcastle Central railway station is set to undergo a multi-million pound upgrade. Network Rail announced that the £8.6 million project is intended to transform the station, with plans including the addition of new shops, improved waiting rooms and toilets, better signage, alterations to the existing bridge, new lifts and escalators and new glazed canopies to increase natural light.
Phil Verster, Network Rail’s route managing director for London North Eastern, said; “Newcastle station is an incredibly busy and important transport hub for the northeast. These improvements will help passengers to get the best from the listed building. Significantly, the finished station will also give a better first impression to visitors to the city.
“We are working closely with the council and local business leaders to make sure our plans complement the city scheme to improve the area outside the station.”
Tim Hedley-Jones, stations and property director for East Coast, which manages the station, said; “Newcastle is one of the main stations along our route and East Coast welcomes today’s news, which will see significant improvements to some of its key facilities. Once completed, the changes will undoubtedly enhance the travel experience for our customers, whilst giving staff a better working environment.”
The station scheme is being developed in partnership with NE1 and Newcastle City Council, who are also seeking funds to improve the area outside the station for pedestrians, drivers, cyclists and visitors to the city.