England and Wales’ railway stations will be upgraded to the tune of £20 million as part of a government-funded drive to improve passenger journeys.

The money will be used to fund up to 75 per cent of the cost of constructing new stations or reopening previously closed stations.

It is hoped that the new stations will mean faster journeys, new connections and consequently, an all-round better travel experience for passengers.

The scheme is also expected to create new opportunities for travel, employment and housing, and provide a major boost for local economies.

Rail minister Paul Maynard said: “The new stations fund is a great example of how our record investment in the railways and work with local authorities and industry is delivering better journeys for passengers.”

A similar round of funding has already delivered positive change to passenger journeys with new stations at London’s Lea Bridge, Newport’s Pye Corner and Devon’s Newcourt.

Ilkeston near Derby and Kenilworth near Coventry will also soon have their own new station.