Construction work is to commence to enhance and improve Weymouth train station's forecourt (Weymouth Station Gateway) in Doreset.

The work is to begin on Monday 22 November and the Pocket Park element of the scheme will start early in the New Year.

The transformation work will be carried out in phases to minimise disruption and allow the station to fully operate as normal.

The main infrastructure work and surfacing should be completed by the end of March 2022 when landscaping and planting will be added.

Cllr Ray Bryan, Dorset Council’s Portfolio Holder for Highways, Travel and Environment, said: "This is great news, I fully welcome this new design and support the proposals to deliver what the community wants. Residents’ views have been taken on board during the development stages of this design and along with other improvements happening in Weymouth over the winter, this is a great example of the community working together in partnership to deliver much needed development in this area."

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Andrew Ardley, Regional Development Manager at South Western Railway, added: "We have been working towards construction for some time and now to finally realise this is welcome news. The new design has addressed the many challenges we face and will enhance the customer experience within the station environment. We have come a long way since the consultation and now have a design to improve the experience of all station users and welcome visitors to the town.

"The more integrated transport links should be beneficial to all, especially the new bus stops on the forecourt and King Street itself. It will complement the funding secured from Department of Transport and Dorset Council for improved cycle parking facilities at the station. I look forward to seeing the scheme take shape on the ground and working with partners to explore options for a next phase of improvements to the station building."