Work starts to improve the look of bus station

Improvements have started at Alnwick bus station.

Much-needed work to improve the look of Alnwick's heavily criticised bus station has begun.

Earlier this year, we reported that a package of measures was being planned in a bid to try to tidy up the eyesore site.

Now, the attempted facelift is under way, with the surplus crush barriers removed and the remaining barriers and seats being re-painted.

It is believed that other improvements, such as repairing the roof, jet-washing surfaces and installing new, brighter and vandal-proof LED lighting is imminent.

The bus station is owned by neighbouring store Morrisons and leased by Arriva.

Alnwick Town Council has been discussing improvements with both companies and, in keeping with the Alnwick and Denwick Neighbourhood Plan’s Community Action Proposals, it has budgeted for improved signage and information at the bus station, which is expected to be provided this year.

Meanwhile, Arriva and Morrisons are to work closely with Alnwick in Bloom to deliver environmental improvement works.

The town council, Arriva and Morrisons are also planning a route towards more substantial bus-station improvements beyond 2018, provided that funding can be secured.