AN expanded car park at St Helens Junction train station is set to open next week.

The park and ride facility will open on Monday, May 14 and will see the station spaces increase from 66 to 240.

The opening follows a community led campaign about overcrowding, which was leading to vast amounts of cars parking on streets nearby.

Merseytravel say other improvements include an increased number of blue badge spaces, better walking routes within the site and upgraded lighting and CCTV coverage.

The increased car parking spaces have been built on Merseytravel land and the current parking bays have been re-marked.

The £792,000 scheme, is financed through the Government Sustainable Transport Enhancement Package (STEP) and Merseytravel funding.

The work began in November 2017 and a phased approach was taken so that part of the existing car park remained open in order to minimise disruption.

The car park, which is free for rail users, will be operated and maintained by the station operator Northern.

Cllr Liam Robinson, Liverpool City Region Combined Authority Transport Portfolio Holder, said: “It’s great news that the new expanded park and ride facility at St Helens Junction is set to open.

“Not only will it offer more parking opportunities for rail users at the station, it should reduce the amount of on street parking around the station, taking the pressure off local residents and traders.

“This is just one example of the work we are doing to improve rail facilities in the area, with the new Newton-le-Willows Interchange also set to open later this year.”

St Helens Council's Cabinet Member for Growth, Councillor John Fulham, added: "I'd like to thank residents and fellow councillors who have campaigned consistently for this scheme and our partners at the City Region Combined Authority for the funding.

"I know residents and rail users will welcome this development which will really relieve congestion and benefit the community at large."