The project is aimed at improving links with other forms of transport - such as bus and vehicular access and cycle facilities - for the benefit of all visitors to the station.

The project is led by Essex County Council and will involve an investment of approximately �130,000.

The county council’s cabinet member for highways and transportation Cllr Norman Hume said: “Essex County Council is pleased to invest in this busy station.

“Audley End has direct links to London and Cambridge, which means that improvements to this station will benefit the residents of the area greatly.”

Improvements at the station will include:

• a new turning area for buses

• a new bus stop

• a new taxi rank

• improved cycle parking provision

• better circulation for cars in the main car park

National Express East Anglia’s area manager Alan Neville said: “We welcome this investment by Essex County Council which will greatly improve transport interchange facilities at Audley End station.

“We have already provided an enlarged car park here, and Network Rail has improved access for disabled customers.

“This project provides a much needed boost for the growing numbers of people who arrive at our station by bus, taxi or bike, and completes the investment at one of our busiest stations.”

There could be minor short term disruption and loss of car parking spaces whilst the works - which are scheduled for completion in January - are being carried out.

• Meanwhile, the lifts at Audley End station have been temporarily closed during hours when the station is not staffed due to maintenance work.