MAJOR plans have been drawn up to dramatically overhaul the entrance to York station, demolishing a redundant road bridge and reconfiguring entrances and exits to the station.

The taxi rank and car parking would be reorganised, a new “Station Square” created and the adjoining area known as Tea Room Square pedestrianised.

At the same time, currently hidden parts of the city walls could be revealed and the area around York Railway Institute will be improved.

The proposals have been revealed as City of York Council starts a public consultation asking for people's views over the next four weeks.

The city's executive member for transport, Cllr Peter Dew, said it was a chance to improve the current situation.

“Travelling to and from the station is a far from ideal experience, whichever mode of transport you use,” he said.

“We now have a fantastic opportunity to make it much easier to use, especially with the station set for a three-fold increase in passenger numbers over the next 30 years.”

The proposals build on what people have said in previous consultations, he added, and would link up with plans for York Central, and improved pedestrian and cycle route over Scarborough Bridge.

The council is working with Network Rail, the Intercity East Coast Mainline franchise and engineering and design consultancy Arup to develop the master plan, and is getting ready to make a planning application for the first phase.

Visit york.gov.uk/stationfront