The first stage of work to improve the gateway to and from York‘s famous railway station is now taking place on Queen Street.

The ambitious York Station Front scheme will completely transform the station frontage, providing an improved transport interchange, as well as revamping the public space around the station. The scheme aims to encourage more people to walk, cycle and use public transport to access the station, as well as creating a more welcoming and inclusive environment around the front of the railway station for the public. The scheme will also create an improved setting for the City Walls and other heritage buildings in the area.

Last year a planning application was approved to transform the front of York Railway Station. This will provide an improved transport interchange and public spaces around the station for people to enjoy. The full scheme which is valued at over £25 million, is funded by the West Yorkshire-Plus Transport Fund and the Leeds City Region Transforming Cities Fund.

This major scheme will be delivered in partnership by City of York Council, Network Rail, LNER and the West Yorkshire Combined Authority.

The work on Queen Street marks the beginning of the project with the main stage of work on the scheme set to begin later this year.

Yorkshire Water are working on the Queen Street slip road until mid-March. They will be working to divert a water main and install new meters. Whilst access down the road will be possible, with traffic management measures in place, there will be parking suspensions on Queen Street to allow for the work to be completed as quickly and safely as possible.

At the end of February into early March it is expected that BT Openreach will start works opposite the station. Station Road will remain open during these works, further details will be shared on this in the coming weeks.

Councillor Keith Aspden, Leader of City of York Council, said: “I really welcome the continued progress being made on this scheme, with work now taking place on the ground to transform this historic gateway to our city.

“This is an incredibly important project for the city, as it will deliver major economic, social and transport benefits, linking with the long term development of York Central. Working with our partners, we hope that the York Station Frontage project will provide an enhanced and more fitting gateway to our beautiful, historic city.”

Councillor Andy D’Agorne, Deputy Leader of City of York Council and Executive Member for Transport said: “We are getting on with delivering this important project. York’s railway station is a key part of the city and by making significant improvement to the area around it we aim to encourage active and sustainable travel and make the front of the station something all can enjoy.

“These are initial works by utilities which will allow the more substantial works, such as the removal of Queen Street Bridge and the wider improvements, to take place. This is an important step for the programme and we are in dialogue with contractors to minimise disruption to residents whilst these works take place.”

Councillor Susan Hinchcliffe, Chair of the West Yorkshire Combined Authority’s Transport Committee, said: “We’re delighted to be working in partnership with City of York Council, Network Rail and LNER on this scheme, which will make it easier for people to walk, cycle and use public transport.

“It is more important than ever that we continue to invest in a modern, accessible transport network, which supports economic growth by connecting more people with jobs, training and education, including between York and West Yorkshire.”

Sarah Reid, Route Director for Network Rail’s East Coast route, said: “We’re really happy that the first step on this important scheme gets underway this week.

“Improving the station front really will transform the area, and will provide a much warmer welcome for local people and those visiting the city.”