A MULTI-MILLION pound programme of improvements to be carried out over the next decade at Watford Junction has been unveiled.

The ambitious project includes a multi-storey car park and mixed use development to the east of the track, redevelopment of the station forecourt, and construction of a link road from St Albans Road to Colonial Way industrial park.

A planning brief prepared by Watford Council said "the main aim of the project is to increase car parking on site and improve the efficiency of the interchange".

Although it proposes building more car parking, and maintaining the existing station car park, the council claims it wants to encourage people to leave their cars at home and use "sustainable transport such as bus, cycle and walking to reach Watford Junction".

A council spokesman said: "There are two strands to this. We are improving facilities for current users to get them out of their cars.

"The other part is the anticipated announcement about the Croxley Rail Link, which would link Watford Junction with the Underground.

"This will make it the most northerly terminal for Wembley and it is expected usership will go up."

Commuters at Watford Junction station will be consulted about plans to improve car parking, bus and train connections, and access and facilities at the station.

In recent years, passenger numbers at the station have risen dramatically with an increase in inter-city links to London Euston and fast commuter services from Euston to Milton Keynes and Birmingham New Street.

It is thought these services may be extended further, with possible options for a more direct Underground connection and cross London rail link.