New-look station officially opened (From Romsey Advertiser)

Bosses cut tape at Basingstoke rail station

11:37am Thursday 15th March 2012 in Basingstoke By Simon Moss

BASINGSTOKE train station was officially re-opened today following a £2million facelift.

The station entrance has been completely refurbished with a new stainless steel and glass frontage as well as an enlarged booking hall with more ticket machines.

There will also be a coffee bar, cafe and branch of WH Smith. It is hoped the changes will improve the image of the town for visitors along with the new “gateway” to The Malls shopping precinct on Alencon Link.

The Mayor of Basingstoke and Deane, Cllr David Leeks, unveiled a plaque to commemorate the occasion with Tim Shoveller, managing director of South West Trains.

Mr Shoveller said the station handles just less than five million passengers a year and is an important hub for the area. He told The Gazette: “I am delighted that this scheme has been completed on time and on budget. The station now looks much nicer and has got rid of the 1980s concrete look.”

Cllr Leeks said: “I am sure it will make a real difference.”

The project began in June last year. There is also improved bicycle storage facilities and a new waiting room on platforms two and three.