WORK on a multi-million pound makeover for Newport train station, which will transform it into the “greenest” station in South Wales, got under way yesterday.

Over the next 11 months, engineers will be working around the clock to create a new £22 million station twice the size of the existing building, which will cater for the increasing number of rail passengers in the region.

Jointly funded by Network Rail and the Assembly, the project includes two new terminals, an additional entrance to serve passengers from the northern side of the city, a footbridge between all the platforms and waiting shelters.

There will also be three new lifts, CCTV, a modernised customer information centre, improved ticketing and information points and more shops.

The existing car park will be extended by 250 spaces and platform four will be extended by 50 metres to accommodate longer trains.

Discussions are under way between the parties involved in the project, including Newport Unlimited, Newport city council, Arriva Trains Wales and the designers Grimshaw and Atkins, to decide issues such as whether the footbridge needs to be moved.

Mike Gallop, Network Rail route enhancement manager, said: “This is the beginning of a new chapter for the people in Newport and for rail passengers travelling into Wales.

“There is still much to do and we have a big task ahead, we will continue to work hard to make the new station happen.”

According to Network Rail, the project will transform the station into the "greenest and biggest station in South Wales."

Newport city council leader, Matthew Evans, said: “The modern and unique design of the new station will create an improved first impression for visitors arriving in the city for the Ryder Cup, but more importantly will create a lasting legacy which will benefit all Newport residents.

“For businesses it will further enhance our city’s unique position as the main transport gateway for south Wales.”

Engineers have been on site over the past few weeks carrying out preparation work for the project.

A special sustainable recyclable material, which is also used by the Eden Project, will be used to clad the building creating a bright and airy space for passengers and providing better insulation.