Work finally begins on new Wolverhampton Railway Station

From today, the former British Transport Police building, which is located next to Platform 1 and is currently behind barriers, will be knocked down.

The start of work on a new station building will follow shortly and will be opened to customers by autumn next year.

The second phase of the programme will see the current station knocked down and replaced.

The new station will be complete by 2020 and will connected to the Midland Metro through the extension from St George's.

WATCH: Showcase for new station

Behind the project is Wolverhampton Council, Ion, West Midlands Combined Authority, West Midlands Trains, Virgin Trains, Network Rail, Midland Metro Alliance, Canal and River Trust, and Black Country Local Enterprise Project.

Council leader, Councillor Roger Lawrence, said: “This is a momentous occasion for Wolverhampton.

“It has been a long-held vision for the council to deliver a new railway station befitting of our great city and seeing the first bricks tumbling brings us close to that reality.

“There is £3.7 billion of investment currently on site or in the pipeline across Wolverhampton.

“As part of this regeneration it is crucial visitors to our city get the best first impression possible and their travel experience is enhanced - this new state-of-the-art station will deliver that.”

Andy Street, Mayor of the West Midlands, added: “It’s fair to say that Wolverhampton has waited a long time for this new railway station and that when it is complete it will provide a suitable gateway to a thriving city.

“Just as important, the new station will be the hub of a rail, tram and bus network which will be a huge benefit to the people of Wolverhampton.

“The start of demolition work is an important milestone and I am delighted to be able to take part and equally that the West Midlands Combined Authority investment is going towards something already making progress.”