A MILLION-pound railway station revamp has resulted in more people using the station.

Shotton Railway Station underwent a major improvement programme of work last year and since being reopened in November use of the station has shot up by 11 per cent.

It was opened by Lord Barry Jones who unveiled a plaque at the new ticket station, which was just one of the enhancements at the station by Flintshire Council, the Welsh Assembly Government and Arriva Trains Wales.

Tony Sharps, Flintshire Council’s executive member for environment, said: “During that time the receipts have gone up by over 11 per cent which is excellent news because of the inclement weather and quiet time of year.

“We are looking forward to a very busy Easter and summer. It proves the £1million investment was worth it. It is good news for Shotton and good news for British Rail.

“It proves we were wise in investing the money and getting Lord Barry Jones to give it a high profile opening.”

The first phase of the work was carried out in 2009 and included a resurfaced, widened footpath between the high and low level stations, new passenger waiting shelters and new signs to help passengers find their way around.

A new bicycle store and automated ticket vending machines were also installed.

The second phase was carried out between May and September last year and involved replacing the old ticket office with a new waiting room and service area.

Shotton councillor Elwyn Jones called for the frequency of trains between Shotton to Wrexham to be increased from every hour to every half hour.

He said: “This is great news for the town. The new station looks great and I am very pleased with it. Along with the new pub it has been a real boost to the area.”

Cllr Jones said he would like to see a dedicated local bus route to help residents in Aston and Higher Shotton access the town centre and the train station.