THE FIRST planned phase of £1.5million works to make Bournemouth Station more accessible will begin next week.

Bournemouth Council, who are working in partnership with the South West Trains-Network Rail Alliance to carry out the improvements as part of their Three Town’s Travel commitment to tackle Bournemouth’s future congestion, with funding also from the government.

Works are set to be completed by late 2015 and will start with improvements at the end of the coach station nearest the Asda car park and the section of the road outside the Fitspace gym’s cafe.

Contractors will also be preparing for new temporary bus stops to be installed, ready for the next phase which will involve improvements to the bus shelter area.

A spokesperson for Bournemouth Council, said: “The contractors are onsite and are setting up this week, but the works that will properly start next week.”

Other changes being made to the station include alterations to the layout making it easier for people to use the buses, taxis and cycling facilities, better signage and the updates to the train station’s canopy and facilities.

John Collins, Bournemouth Station Manager, said: “The improvements will play a significant role in creating a great first impression of our town to visitors. Over the next few months we’ll be working hard on the changes whilst reassuring all our visitors that it’s business as usual at Bournemouth Station.”

Commuters are advised that short stay car-parking and car drop-off facilities for rail passengers will be available on the London-bound side of the train station during the works.

In addition, there will be a car drop-off area available for disabled passengers only on the Weymouth-bound side of the train station.

All other passenger access to the train station and connections from the existing bus services, coaches and taxi stands will be maintained as the works continue. Access to businesses in this area will also be maintained for staff and customers.