AFTER three long years of bidding and speculation, rail passengers who use Birchwood station could finally be on track for major upgrades.

With First Group and Keolis being awarded the sought-after Trans Pennine Express franchise, Birchwood is one of the route's 30 destinations set for improvements.

As reported in the Guardian Midweek, half a million pounds could be injected into the ageing Central Station, and now Birchwood looks likely to be brought into the 21st century with proposals to revamp facilities including toilets, shelter areas and install CCTV security.

Dave Eccles, a councillor for Birchwood East, has been pushing the executive member for transport, Linda Dirir, to make Birchwood station a priority and wants more people to leave their cars at home and use public transport.

He said: "The station is unkempt, it's dirty and can be intimidating. Access is the biggest bone of contention, as you can't get a pram, a wheelchair or a bike to the station. It needs an upgrade."

Robin Etherington, of First Group, said that feedback from passengers using the Trans Pennine route had been largely positive.

He said: "The bidding process lasted three years, but now a decision has been made, passengers can look forward to a much-improved rail service."

Rail officials have been reluctant to confirm the exact financial details for individual stations, but have conceded that each station, depending on its size, could receive an average of £500,000.

The franchise promises a £260million investment programme, creating 200 jobs, replacing the existing fleet with 100mph trains and updating the timetable.