IMPROVEMENT works at Windermere train station that will incorporate better waiting areas and a more modern look are due to begin in late November or early December, reports Andrew Daniels.

Over the coming months, operator TransPennine Express (TPE) will invest £12 million in stations across its network that will create benefits for all train users.

Windermere has been earmarked as the first station along the Lakes Line to receive a facelift and it will happen at a time when TPE is planning to bring in a new ticketing system aimed at improving the experience of travelling by train.

Speaking at the Lakes Line User Group's annual meeting, Paul Jackson of TPE said: "It's been brilliant because the actual idea for Windermere came from yourselves.

"There will be an improved waiting area for customers and back-of-house for staff and it also gives a better look to the station as well as a more modern look."

New features will include a toilet for people with disabilities, improved signage and dedicated cleaners will be on hand for all turn-around trains. Some improvements have already been made.

Other stations will see new signage and, over the next 12 months, the installation of a customer information service (CIS). This will give notice of delays and if a replacement bus service will be running.

The meeting also heard that Kendal would no longer be used as a pilot station for the introduction of CCTV along the Lakes Line. Due to a problem with the contractor, the whole line will be updated with cameras in the spring and summer of next year instead.

Kendal station will also receive a new telephone, which will also double up as a help point.

Despite some concern over ticket collections along the Lakes Line and the holding of trains at Oxenholme, members of the Lakes Line User Group were appreciative of the work undertaken by TPE.

County councillor Joan Stocker said the trains were much cleaner and that she was proud of Windermere station. Assistant secretary of the group Dick Smith said it was a much better line than 20 years ago.

l Concerns were raised over the safety of people using Kendal station at weekends and waiting at the bottom of the ramp for replacement bus services. People should wait at the bus stops on Appleby Road, near the railway bridge.