TICKET barriers could be added at Worcester Foregate Street Station to combat fare dodgers as part of a £1million upgrade programme.

MP Robin Walker has this week met with West Midlands Rail to discuss the investment plan, which would also see improvements to the ticket office and retail facilities.

An additional 413 carriages are due to be in service in the region by 2021, with WMR promising a 25 per cent increased capacity to alleviate overcrowding in carriages and platform waiting times.

The rail company has apparently assured Mr Walker that it is confident the proposed changes will allow for a better travelling experience, with the MP said to have outlined the importance of improving customer service.

This included upgrading the accessibility of the station for older and less mobile travellers.

Aware of constituents concerns regarding the travel centre, Mr Walker’s office has also said he was reassured there may be changes proposed to the current location of the centre.

However, WMR are keen to maintain the services provided by the existing centre.

A public consultation will be opened after WMR has published its early plans, in the near future, for members of the public to have their say.