Work to revamp the forecourt of Watford Junction station to bring it "into the 21st century" has started.

Mayor of Watford Peter Taylor said he is "excited" for the work to have started at the town's main train station, which is the first of a series of improvement projects set to take place at Watford Junction.

New paving, lighting, planting, seating, and signage is being introduced into the forecourt as part of the renovation plans, as well as the addition of large freestanding letters spelling 'WATFORD'.

A new Beryl bike share bay will also be installed at the front of the station in a bid to encourage people to use bikes.

Watford Observer:

The work is being carried out by Watford Borough Council, which is working closely with its partners London North Western Railway, Network Rail and Hertfordshire Local Enterprise Partnership to transform the forecourt area.

Mr Taylor said “Eight million people a year travel through Watford Junction station.

"I am really excited to kickstart these works to bring our station into the 21st century. This will make the station forecourt a more welcoming and interesting place and will be a much better first impression for people coming to our town.”

Works to improve the concourse area of the station is set to go ahead in spring 2021, which will be led by Network Rail and developer Halkin.

Improvements to the current long stay and short stay car park situation are also being looked at.

Tina Barnard, Chair of Hertfordshire LEP’s Strategic Infrastructure Board, said: “We are delighted to help kickstart the transformation of Watford Junction station, which will provide the modern facilities needed to support a long term modal shift towards public transport.

"This work forms a key part of the wider Clarendon Road regeneration scheme, supported by our £5m Local Growth Fund investment, which has breathed new life into the town’s major commercial thoroughfare, providing a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere for local businesses, residents and visitors.”