Plans to regenerate the area around Haywards Heath station in a £17m scheme by Solum Regeneration (a partnership between Network Rail and Kier Property) have been approved by Mid Sussex District Council.

The scheme will create an improved integrated transport hub at the station, better parking, and improved pick up /drop off facilities. Plus the refurbishment of the exterior of the station building including new signage, canopies and lighting as well as creating better pedestrian connections between the station and the car park. The scheme also safeguards space for a future platform for the Bluebell Railway.

Cllr Garry Wall, Leader of Mid Sussex District Council, said: "This long overdue, multi-million pound investment is great news for Haywards Heath especially in the current economic climate. It will create jobs and provide an important boost to the local economy. It will significantly improve the area around the station and I am delighted that the District Planning Committee agreed these proposals"

The regeneration will also bring a Waitrose food store to Haywards Heath, creating up to 200 new jobs and improving the retail offer in the town.

Mark Ruddy, route managing director, Sussex for Network Rail, said: "The plans to regenerate the area around Haywards Heath station will complement the improvements already made by Southern. There will be improved links with other public transport, better parking and better pick up and drop off facilities, all of which make accessing and leaving the station easier for passengers. Combined with the new supermarket, passengers and local people will see a real difference in the area around the station when the improvements are complete."

Solum, who are working in conjunction with Southern (the Train Operating Company that manage the station on a day to day basis) intend to start work at Haywards Heath during the summer of 2013 and for the scheme to be completed by late 2014.