One of the most ambitious and impressive proposals for Nottingham's transport and economic development has been given a boost by funding from East Midlands Development Agency (emda) and the Greater Nottingham Partnership (GNP).

A development grant of over £1.5 million has been awarded to take forward the multi-million pound regeneration project - known as The Hub - which aims to transform Nottingham’s railway station and the surrounding area.

"The Hub represents profound changes in our transport connections across the region, the UK and now across Europe - given the new Eurostar connection at London St Pancras," said John Watson, Chair of the Project’s Board.

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"Over five million passengers use the station every year and passenger growth is set to rise rapidly. We now need a 21st Century station serving a 21st Century city."

The grant money, together with funds from other partners including the City Council and Network Rail, will be used to progress the Business Case and further develop the scheme's design.

Mr Watson continued: "This is a vital next step in the process. We’ll be taking ambitious planning proposals and converting them into nuts and bolts details that can be used by construction companies to tender for the work."

The proposals are expected to act as a catalyst for the development of sites surrounding the station and are part of wider plans to improve the Southside of the city.

"The redevelopment of the station will increase its use and appeal making it easier for people to choose to use public transport," said Councillor Parbutt, Portfolio Holder for Transport, Economic Development and Skills at Nottingham City Council.

"All our experience indicates that a transport revolution could transform the Southside - Capital One chose their site on Station Street precisely for its proximity to public transport, and they have since constructed one of the most elegant new office buildings in the country."

(JM)