MORE than £50 million is being invested in Worcestershire's rail network supporting the booming economy - including a new multi-million pound Kidderminster station.

The money being invested will ensure the county, which has one of the fastest growing economies in the country, has better connectivity to the wider county.

The investment is also essential as figures show that the county will see a 97 per cent growth in passenger numbers on its rail network by 2043.

On some routes, including Worcester to London, it is expected to double current figures.

Around £53 million is being spent by Worcestershire County Council and its partners on rail improvements up to 2019 - including at Kidderminster, the second busiest station in the county.

The £4.3 million station is expected to be completed by summer 2019 and the dramatic redevelopment will feature a new glass-fronted station, twice the size of the existing building. Facilities will include a new cafe or shop, toilets and indoor seating and waiting areas.

Clearly marked waiting and taxi areas will be created in front of the station to make it safer for pedestrians. The scheme also proposes significant improvements to nearby bus facilities and a new pedestrian crossing close to the station on Comberton Hill.

Councillor Ken Pollock, cabinet member for economy and infrastructure, said: "We have a booming economy in Worcestershire and we fully expect the upward trend to continue.

"To allow for future growth, this county needs an improved rail network so that is why, alongside partners, we are investing into it.

"Better rail connectivity benefits not only residents but also businesses and improving connectivity is one of the county council's top priorities."