Leading local MP Marcus Jones has welcomed the decision by Network Rail and London Midland to investigate how access to Nuneaton railway station and facilities at the station can be improved.

The issue of station access and facilities was raised at the recent rail user drop-in session organised by the local MP at the town’s ASDA store.

Local rail users complained at how difficult access to the station can be now so many people are using the station, and a discussion took place over whether a pedestrian access from Weddington Terrace could be developed to alleviate congestion and encourage more passengers to walk and cycle to the station.

Following the meeting, Network Rail have confirmed to the local MP that they are looking to meet with the station operator, London Midland, to hold initial discussions over the feasibility of creating another access to serve the station.

The MP, who is hoping to join those discussions, is keen to see what can be done to alleviate congestion for rail passengers, but he also wants to make sure that any changes don’t adversely impact on people living in the area.

Speaking about the study, Marcus said: “We now have over one million passengers per year using Nuneaton station and that number seems to be increasing year-on-year. The main access to the station is becoming really busy and we need to consider what can be done to alleviate that and traffic on the ring-road.

“Many people have spoken to me and expressed their views that an additional access would be well used and would encourage more people to walk and cycle to the station.

“With all of the new house building on that side of the station and the potential for more rail commuters to move to Nuneaton, it makes sense to investigate this possibility.

“I hope that at the same time as this study takes place the whole station can be looked at to see what improvements to facilities and refurbishment could take place.

“The Government is investing heavily in rail infrastructure and stations, and it would be great if a bid could be put together to secure the funding to bring practical improvements that would improve access and bring other practical improvements for rail users.”