A MAJOR redevelopment of Bourne End train staton has been granted thanks to funding from Great Western Railway.

Buckinghamshire Council has been awarded £18.6K to improve access for those walking, wheeling, cycling or taking the bus to Bourne End Railway Station.

The council successfully applied for a grant from the train operator’s Community Fund, which was launched in May to support local communities and address areas of social need.

As part of GWR’s National Rail Contract with the Department for Transport, the train operator is committed to supporting schools, colleges, councils, community and other not-for-profit organisations by aiding a number of initiatives.

A feasibility study commissioned by Buckinghamshire Council will consider the provision of a new safe crossing to the station on Station Road, improving station accessibility and improvements to walking, wheeling and cycling routes to the station.

The council will also be working closely with GWR on a proposal to improve facilities for bus users by creating a new bus interchange at the station.

The council hopes these measures will make it easier for people to complete low carbon commutes combining rail, bus and active travel.

The outputs of the feasibility study will be used to inform future bids for full delivery funding.

Cabinet Member for Transport Steven Broadbent said: “This timely and welcome funding from GWR will help us look at the feasibility of improving pedestrian access to Bourne End Railway Station.

"We are aware of the positive change that improving station access would bring in the area and we’re working with the South West Chilterns Community Board, local Members and the Wooburn & Bourne End Parish Council to explore the best ways to making such improvements.”

GWR Business Development Director Tom Pierpoint said: "The Community Fund is a fantastic opportunity for us to invest in our communities in projects that really make a difference at a local level.

“GWR is passionate about making its trains and stations accessible to all. The council’s feasibility study will consider a series of measures to assist customers making their way to the station, which is a real positive.”