THE �7 million overhaul of Port Talbot's outdated railway station is on track to start next spring.
Passengers will have their first glimpse of what it will look like after the work ends in 2014 when an exhibition opens on Tuesday.
Visitors will be encouraged to have their say on the designs, fill in a questionnaire and leave comments.
More details have now emerged of the proposals, which follow a campaign spearheaded by Aberavon MP Hywel Francis and backed by thousands of people.
Plans
Neath Port Talbot Council, Arriva Trains Wales and Network Rail will submit a bid to the Assembly Government's Wales Station Improvement programme for European funding.
Plans include a new enclosed footbridge with lifts providing step-free access to the platform. There will be a new ticket office and waiting areas as well as a caf� and retail area, new toilets and improvements to customer information and CCTV.
The development includes a 200-space car park with a park and ride for commuters, along with improved facilities for cyclists, bus passengers and taxis.
Work is expected to start next spring and take around 18 months to complete.
Council leader Ali Thomas said: "This exciting project will tie in with the ongoing regeneration plans for Port Talbot.
"The proposals will be a major boost to the town centre and totally revamp the lower end of Station Road, which is much needed.
"It will complement the Harbour Way link road and help to draw in investment to open up the derelict dockland for office and business development.
"Improvements at Port Talbot Parkway are long overdue, particularly in respect of disabled rail users.
"Now I am pleased to see passengers and visitors will benefit from a modern and integrated railway system that reflects the heritage and aspirations of the town."
Deputy First Minister, Ieuan Wyn Jones said, "When I launched the Wales Station Enhancement programme last year I invited bids, such as this one from Neath Port Talbot, with the aim of transforming passengers' travel experience and more importantly, opening up new opportunities for the areas involved.
"I am pleased to hear that the bid is progressing well, and I am sure the design proposals will attract a lot of interest from the local community.
"Sustained investment in rail, as well as improvements to our infrastructure like the Harbour Way link, will be vital in helping unleash the economic potential of South Wales and the Valleys."
People can also see the plans and leave comments online at www.npt.gov.uk/ regeneration
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