Network Rail is to invest £9.5million to restore and upgrade Lancaster Station.

Station platform canopies are being renovated to improve passenger journeys on the West Coast main line.

The work involves:

• Replacing all glazing in the platform canopies

• Repairing and strengthening the structure of the canopy structures

• Repainting across the station

The work won't impact train services but passengers are advised the look and feel of the station will be different while the renovations take place.

Some of the work will need to take place when trains aren’t running, Network Rail has written to people living nearby to let them know when work could be noisy.

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The Grade II listed station was built in 1846 by nineteenth century architect William Tite and was first given listed building status in 1990.

Before the listing alterations were made across the station including the current platform canopies which were changed in the 1960s and 70s.

These are now being overhauled to make them brighter, weatherproof and more attractive for passengers.

Joanna Fielding, Network Rail scheme project manager, said: "Lancaster station is one of the jewels of the West Coast main line so I’m delighted we’re able to make this significant investment into the platform canopies and make them fit for the future.

"The work will not only benefit local people but also tourists who travel to the city and wider region. I’d like to thank passengers and local people for their patience while we carry out this essential upgrade to keep the station safe and attractive for decades to come."

The project to restore the canopies starts next week and is expected to be complete by Spring 2024.