Work on Peterborough Station Quarter to start 'within six months' - MP
The project has been approved by the government
Peterborough's MP believes work can start on the near £50 million regeneration of the rail station and nearby areas within six months.
It comes after the Government approved the project after a full business case was submitted in March, but planning permission is still needed.
The first phase of building work is due to start later this year.
"I want the window to the city, the shop front, the place people arrive at (which is) the station to look modern, welcoming and have a great gateway into the city centre," Labour's Andrew Pakes said.
"When we have guests, friends and families visiting us, they see us at our best and at the moment, the station looks a little tired."
What's included in the project?
The approval means £47.8m in funding can be used to begin the first phase of construction - known as the 'City Link' - pending on the government's upcoming comprehensive spending review.
A safer and clearer pedestrian and cycling route between the station and city centre is planned, replacing the current underpass at Cowgate.
The wider project includes a new western entrance to the station, a multi-storey car park on the station's west side and refurbished station buildings.
There is also due to be new public spaces and improved planting areas.
Peterborough 'has felt a little left behind'
Mr Pakes believes investment in Peterborough is much needed.
"When you look at the last decade where investment has happened in other parts of the country, Peterborough has sometimes felt a little left behind; I want to see more visitors," he said.
"We know there's lots more land, let's get that in phase two, let's get some businesses, retail, coffee shops; there's an exciting plan of action."
Mr Pakes added that he hopes "within the next six months, we see hoardings going up, spades in the ground and people will begin to see the change happening".