AN unseen artist's impression and timetable of works for the new £4.3 million Kidderminster Train Station were revealed this morning at an open event.

New images show what the bigger glass-fronted station building will look like, as well as the layout of the forecourt which includes a zoned drop-off area, taxi rank and improved pedestrian route to Severn Valley Railway.

Worcestershire County Council and partners were at the station at the open day speaking to commuters about the development.

Cllr Ken Pollock, county cabinet member for economy and infrastructure, said: "As the main bulk of work starts soon, I'm delighted that the project team are taking the opportunity to talk to passengers, businesses and local residents about the transformation works that will happen over the coming months.

Kidderminster Shuttle:

A new artist's sketch of the upgraded station and forecourt

"With this station being the second busiest in the county with almost a fifth of all rail travel in the county either starting or stopping here, this investment is very much welcomed."

Phase one of the upgrade, which is now underway and set to continue until next month, will involve initial survey and prep work.

The second phase, beginning in January, will see the start of the forecourt works and the installation of a temporary ticket office and toilets.

During phase three, the existing building will be demolished and the new expanded station will start to take shape.

The final stage, due for completion in autumn 2019, will see the station building fitted with a new indoor waiting area and toilets. The outdoor area will be landscaped while the footpaths and access road are surfaced.

Trees will be removed to improve the station's visibility from Comberton Hill and the majority of cobbles in the forecourt will be replaced by Tarmac. A small number will be retained and reused as part of the redevelopment, while the cobbles outside Severn Valley Railway will be untouched to maintain its heritage feel.

Kidderminster Shuttle:

Partners at the Kidderminster Station open day

Brenda Lawrence, head of stations for West Midlands Railway, said: “This is an exciting project and we really welcome the investment being made by Worcestershire County Council.

"Both rail passengers and the wider local economy will benefit from the new station.

"When complete, customers will enjoy a more welcoming gateway to the area and nearby Severn Valley Railway.”

Worcestershire County Council says rail services will not be affected by the improvement works, although the cash machine and shop will not be available at the temporary ticket office.

Instead of pulling into the forecourt, buses will call at improved bus shelters on Comberton Hill, which will also benefit from a new pedestrian crossing.