A BOLD masterplan for Middlesbrough’s historic railway station would see it become a bustling transport and commercial hub.

Ambitious plans “fit for a city” were unveiled by the town’s MP and mayor yesterday.

The development work would build upon the £3m programme of Network Rail funded repairs already ongoing at the site and would see the Victorian era station revamped to include: more passenger facilities; an extra platform; a new glass frontage and concourse at the Bridge Street entrance and a re-opened southern entrance.

A commercial hub would occupy the space under the railway station that formerly housed the Cornerhouse nightclub while there would also be improved access for vehicles and the potential of new bus routes in the area.

MP Andy McDonald and Middlesbrough’s Mayor, Dave Budd, believe the project will revitalise the area and create a bustling hub that links the town centre and Middlehaven.

As they unveiled artists’ impressions created by consultants BDP, Mr McDonald estimated that the work could be completed as soon as 2023.

Together with Middlesbrough’s council, he is working alongside the rail industry on a joint programme board in a bid to “realise both the site’s ambition and strategic potential over the coming years”.

Mr McDonald said that he was confident that the plans could be delivered and would attract the necessary funding but could not speculate as to the impact Brexit could have on the proposals, which “do not stand in isolation”, forming art of a bigger plan for the region.

The MP said he had no real concerns, adding: “This is the second biggest railway station in the Tees Valley and it needs the transformation if we are to fulfil our ambitions.

“We want this to be a real portal, a transport hub for the 21st century.

“I make no apology for the boldness of the vision, we have to take the bull by the horns – other towns and cities across the nation have raised their game, why can’t Middlesbrough?”

Mr Budd said: “Middlesbrough Railway Station is at the heart of our historic quarter and a central part of Middlesbrough Council’s investment plans to grow the local economy in line with our city scale ambitions.

“These proposals would make our iconic station even more attractive and also make better use of the space inside. Clearly, we are at an early stage, but it is wonderful to be able to make our ambitions public.”