PLANS for a major overhaul of Southall station as part of the Crossrail programme have been approved by Ealing Council.

On the way is an elegant glass and steel structure that will let in natural light, creating a bright, airy and welcoming environment for passengers.

A new forecourt will make it easier for passengers to get in and out of the station and avoid congestion at the entrance.

A range of other improvements will be made to the station, including:

A new footbridge with three lifts to provide step-free access to every platform

Platform extensions so the station can accommodate the new 200m long Crossrail trains

New lighting, customer information screens, station signage, help points and CCTV.

The work will be carried out by Network Rail. It is due to begin this summer and will last around two years.

From the end of 2017, the station will be run by Transport for London as part of London’s integrated transport network.

Crossrail has also been working with Ealing Council and Network Rail to help develop plans for improvements around both the new and existing station buildings.

Matthew White, Crossrail Surface Director, said: “The improvements will transform the station and deliver a larger building that will serve local people for many decades to come.

“The designs show a bright, spacious structure that will be easier for passengers to get around and will provide a focal point for the area.”

Cllr Julian Bell, leader of Ealing Council, said: “The new design makes it as easy as possible for passengers to use, while also making a significant improvement to the town centre in line with the regeneration work that is already well underway.”

When Crossrail fully opens in 2019, up to 10 services an hour in each direction will serve Southall, allowing passengers to travel right through central London without having to change trains.

Passengers will be able to get to Bond Street in 17 minutes and to Canary Wharf in 31 minutes.

By improving transport links, Crossrail is already unlocking development opportunities.

An example is the former Southall Gas Works site. It now has outline planning permission for 3,750 homes, plus offices, community space and a primary school.