RAIL operator Northern has made more than 1,000 improvements at its stations with tens of millions of pounds invested in improved facilities.

The scheme, through the Better Stations programme, has seen, amongst other things, more than 600 new ticket vending machines, as well as nearly 300 improved waiting shelters and 260 new or improved seating areas.

David Brown, managing director at Northern, said: “Two years ago we committed to making significant improvements at our stations to give our customers a better journey experience.

“With more than 1,000 improvements already completed, and many more yet to come, there is no doubt that we are delivering on that promise.”

As well as improving facilities for customers, Northern has installed more than 40 enhanced PA systems and almost 130 improved CCTV systems.

Better Stations is part of Northern’s wider plans to improve all aspects of its network, giving Northern customers better journeys across the North of England.

Northern has introduced 33 brand new trains and, with a further 68 to be delivered during the rest of 2019 and into 2020 – a £500m investment – many customers are already seeing a step-change in journey experience.

By the end of the year the majority of Pacers will also have been retired and work continues to fully refurbish the remainder of Northern’s fleet of trains.