A major regeneration project that will breathe new life into the area around Chatham railway station and improve links between the station, the town centre and the bus station will start this week.

The station will remain open throughout the work, which is expected to finish in the spring. Train services will not be affected.

The upgrades include a complete remodelling and makeover of the station forecourt and roads around the station, resurfacing of pavements and walkways, new taxi and drop-off bays and new public art.

The improvement works, which form part of Medway Council’s Chatham placemaking initiative, will enhance connectivity between the town’s key transport and commercial centres and also improve passenger experience through investments in public spaces around the station.

Medway Council successfully secured £700,000 from the government’s Local Growth Fund through the South East Local Enterprise Partnership (SELEP) to contribute towards the £1.4m upgrade, with Network Rail match-funding the windfall through its National Station Improvement Programme.

The wider £4m Chatham placemaking initiative, now nearing its completion, has seen refurbishment projects at New Cut Junction, St John’s Square, Military Square and Military Road.

John Halsall, managing director of Network Rail south east, said: “With passenger numbers on the railway continuing to grow, it’s vital we continue to invest in improvements which make travelling by train simpler and more pleasant.

“We’re proud to be working with Medway Council and Southeastern on this fantastic project which will improve the station area, boost links with local public transport and help support economic growth in Chatham and the Medway Towns.”

Cllr Rodney Chambers, who is in charge of regeneration, added: “This project will make it easier for residents and visitors to access the station and will continue to improve the links between the station and town centre.

“There has been huge investment in Chatham which is attracting more businesses and shops to the High Street.”