IT IS THE first part of a £10m project to revamp the area around Southampton’s central railway station.

Work to overhaul the area to the north of the station – known as the Station Quarter – will begin next month.

As previously reported, £2.28m will be spent on the first phase of the project, which would eventually see major improvements carried out in the area over the next decade.

The work, which Labour council bosses say could lead to the creation of 300 jobs, is one of the cornerstones of the masterplan for the development of the city centre.

This first phase, rubberstamped by the city council’s Cabinet last year, will feature improvements in and around the station’s northern exit on Blechynden Terrace.

Among the works will be a newtaxi rank, traffic calming measures, paving, kerbs and drainage.

There will also be extensive work carried out to road surfaces, and improved pedestrian crossing areas.

The work will start on February 10, and is expected to be completed in October.

During that time, existing taxi ranks and bus stop areas will be temporarily relocated closer to the station.

There will also be a reduction in the number of parking spaces on the station’s north side.

The council’s leisure and economic development boss, Matt Tucker, said: “This phase in the redevelopment of Station Quarter will help us create a more welcoming arrival experience, enhancing the perception of our great city for our residents and visitors alike. ”

The council is currently seeking funding for the next stages of the Station Quarter project.