Plans to overhaul Alnwick Bus Station into a modern, safe and accessible transport hub have reached another key milestone.

Subject to planning and funding approvals, the scheme will be delivered in two phases.

Construction is expected to begin this summer, initially focusing on the external areas. The package includes upgrades to layout, safety and accessibility, and will enhance the public realm around the station and the Morrisons service area.

Works will repair and replace hardstanding, reconfigure bus parking, improve pedestrian routes, and introduce new paving, hardstanding, seating and landscaping.

The latest step follows approval of funding by the North East Combined Authority’s Finance and Investment Board, as part of North East Mayor Kim McGuinness’ ambition to create a world-class transport network for the region.

This confirmation enables the County Council to formally accept £1.8 million of external funding at its Cabinet meeting next month (April).

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The scheme will significantly increase trees, greenery and biodiversity in the town centre, with 25 trees, a rain garden, ornamental planting and additional tree planting to boost the are'’s welcoming feel.

Reclaimed cobbles from the Alnwick cobbles project will be relaid as improvements progress in that part of town, ensuring materials are reused sustainably and remain a feature of the centre.

A second phase, now being designed with County Council support, will update and transform the bus station building itself, following the exterior works set out in the planning application.

The proposals form part of the wider Borderlands Place Programme for Alnwick, a multi-million-pound investment backed by the County Council and other funders to regenerate the town centre, including the Bailiffgate Museum and Gallery project at Northumberland Hall, complementary investment in the Cobbles, and potential longer-term improvements.

Councillor Richard Wearmouth, Cabinet member for Regeneration and Chair of Alnwick Place Partnership Group said: "This is another great milestone on our multi-million pound investment package to regenerate Alnwick town centre.

"We know how important the bus station is and have been working closely with partners in the town including our local county councillors, the Town Council, Morrisons and Arriva. I'd like to thank our colleagues in the North East Combined Authority for their close support and funding.

"The proposals are also being supported through the Northumberland Borderlands Place Programme and subject to all the necessary planning and funding approvals we look forward to delivery beginning later this year."