The first part of a £2.2m project to modernise the entrance to Derby’s railway station has been completed.

An improved taxi rank is due to open on Sunday along with a new short-stay car park near to the Hallmark Hotel.

Further improvements will see the main area being pedestrianised, a new bus interchange plus a shelter for almost 150 bikes. The work is due to be finished by the end of November 2012

Derby City Council said work would be scaled back during the Olympics to minimise disruption to those travelling to the Games.

Leader of Derby City Council, Paul Bayliss, said: “The completion of the new taxi rank marks the first step in the redevelopment of the rail station forecourt which will bring huge benefits and create a more welcoming entrance to our city.”

The first phase for the major development Castleward has begun, which will see much of the area around the Railway Station be regenerated into new housing, offices, cafes and restaurants. Read more on the £100m scheme by Clicking Here>