A NEW travel hub aimed at encouraging more people to take the train and cut congestion will be unveiled next week.

The facility, which has been funded by Durham County Council, is part of an upgrade to Bishop Auckland railway station.

It will feature a new waiting area and disabled toilet

Staff from Bishop Trains will also be on hand to provide general rail information and there will be displays for visitors with leaflets featuring rail, bus, walking and cycling routes in the local area.

Officer’s from Durham County Council’s Local Motion scheme, which aims to make it easier to walk, cycle and take public transport in the south of the county, will also be based there.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony will take place on Tuesday between 10.30am and noon to mark the official opening of the hub.

Councillor Neil Foster, cabinet member for economic regeneration at Durham County Council, said: “The new travel hub will not only improve facilities at Bishop Auckland railway station but complement our Local Motion scheme, which is proving successful in encouraging more people to leave their cars at home and explore other, more environmentally-friendly travel options.”

For more details about Local Motion visit dothelocalmotion.co.uk