PLANS for big improvements to Forster Square Railway Station are now open for public consultation.

Officers from Bradford Council will be at the station on Tuesday and Wednesday asking passengers what they think of proposals to dramatically improve access and facilities.

Bradford Council and the West Yorkshire Combined Authority (WYCA) together with Network Rail and train operator Northern are planning a major redevelopment of the station.

Proposals include replacing the existing station building as well as the lift and staircase tower, creating a larger building with a modern and airy design, including glass frontage.

The new, larger building would incorporate the arches behind the station and the new lifts which would provide better access to Cheapside and Manor Row in the top of town area of the city centre.

New ‘pods’ would also be installed in the old railway arches to provide extra facilities at the station. The plans propose to create a café, toilets and ticket facilities in a smaller building within the main concourse building.

The plans, if approved, would see improvements to the layout and access arrangements on the Valley Road side of the station. The overgrown area behind the station would also be cleared to provide a green space or small park area.

There are no plans to make major changes to the railway tracks or the layout of the platforms as part of this proposal.

Councillor Alex Ross-Shaw, Bradford Council’s Executive Member for Regeneration, Planning and Transport, said: “We’ve got exciting plans for Forster Square station to really turn it into an entrance to the city centre we can be proud of.

“There’s some fantastic architectural heritage at the station and this project will really bring that out. It will be good to share our exciting plans with the public and get their feedback.”

Councillor Keith Wakefield, West Yorkshire Combined Authority’s Transport Chair, added: “Part of the Combined Authority’s £1bn West Yorkshire Plus Transport Fund programme of schemes designed to support economic growth and the creation of jobs, Forster Square will improve transport facilities and the journey experience for people travelling to and from Bradford and create a new, welcoming gateway to the city for tourists and commuters.

“It will support growth and job creation by improving links to The Broadway and the city centre and by complementing plans for new leisure facilities close to Forster Square.”

People can find out more about the plans and complete a survey at the events on December 12 and 13 or visit www.bradford.gov.uk/forstersquare