Metro Chairman Councillor James Lewis has described the announcement that Wakefield Westgate station will be benefiting from £6.6m of new investment as 'great news for passengers'.

In addition to a new station building, passengers will also be able to take advantage of a new customer reception, travel centre, First Class lounge and information screens, and better retail outlets.

Located next to the multi-storey car park, the new station building will provide better integration with local bus routes and easier access for vehicles, pedestrians and cyclists.

"As well as being great news for the two million passengers who use Westgate station each year, this redevelopment of the station building will complement the ongoing redevelopment of Wakefield as a place in which to do business," said Cllr Lewis.

A contribution from English Cities Fund as part of its Merchant Gate development, will enhance the funding which has resulted from an application by train operator East Coast with support from Network Rail and Wakefield Council.

Work on the scheme is due to start at the end of 2012 and be completed by December 2013.