Swansea railway station is set to benefit from a multi-million pound overhaul under new proposals unveiled by Network Rail, Arriva Trains Wales and the Welsh Assembly Government.

Forming part of the Department for Transport's national station improvement programme, the project will include the creation of a larger concourse area with improved passenger facilities and a new booking office. The station environment will also be improved as part of the scheme, which also includes a new café, more retail units and renovation work to the front of the station.

Swansea Council leader Chris Holley said: "It's hugely important that Swansea has a public transport network in place that's fit for the 21st century and this upgrade will complement ongoing works to refurbish the Quadrant Bus Station, the imminent return of the Swansea to Cork ferry and the introduction of a fast cat service between Swansea and Ilfracombe." Work is expected to be carried out in two phases, with improvements to the concourse area scheduled for completion by 2011 ahead of further work on the platform area.