The expansion of a train station which will see the concourse doubled in size will begin later this month.

As part of a £1.5m transformation scheme, commuters at Elstree & Borehamwood are set to benefit from improved facilities and more space which is aimed to reduce congestion.

Planning was approved earlier this year.

Passenger improvements include a larger concourse, more ticket gates, larger toilets, and a disabled toilet for the first time, as well as a better ticket office and reconfigured queueing system.

The existing Nisa shop will be 50 per cent larger and will be incorporated into the station while there will also be a new coffee shop which will be accessible from inside the station and platform.

After the work has been completed, there will be two entrances instead of one as well as two exits to the platform.

A glass and steel cycle hub will also be installed providing space for 80 bikes.

Mayor of Hertsmere, Cllr Brenda Batten, who viewed the plans with Thameslink project managers, said: “Elstree & Borehamwood train station is a busy gateway into the town, so I am delighted to see much needed investment being made into improving accessibility and facilities for travellers.

“These improvements, together with the celebration of the town’s film and television heritage through the First Impressions project, help to create a welcoming environment for visitors to the town.”

Bob Redman, chairman of First Impressions, and has helped to organise a series of events to mark 150 years of the railway in Elstree & Borehamwood, added: “Eight years ago the ‘First Impressions’ alliance was formed to make our public spaces more attractive and welcoming, using iconic film and TV images unique to our town.

“The proposed redevelopment will greatly improve that gateway, to the benefit of residents and visitors alike.

“It may even create new opportunities to display the iconic images for which the studios of Elstree & Borehamwood are known across the world.”

The work is being funded by the Department for Transport and the station is being redeveloped in a joint partnership with Govia Thameslink Railway and Network Rail. The contract to carry out the work has been awarded to HA Marks Construction Ltd.

Work will begin in late October. For some of the time there will be a temporary ticket office.

The stars and panels that celebrate the town’s screen heritage will be protected. Buses will be unaffected although some walking routes may change.