WINCHESTER MP Steve Brine hosted Rail Minister, Stephen Hammond, this morning to see the building work at Winchester railway station.

It was also a chance for the local MP to raise issues such as late-night safety aired by the public at a meeting last month.

Mr Hammond, who grew up in Chandler’s Ford, was able to see for himself the work being done to introduce a new decked car park at the station and the footbridge being constructed as part of the ‘Access for all’ scheme.

He was also able to join discussions Mr Brine is having with South West Trains around late night safety for travellers, including the access road leading to Andover Road.

Mr Brine said: “There is significant investment taking place in Winchester so it was important to have the minister visit and check on progress.”

Mr Hammond heard how SWT and Network Rail are working with Hunts Foodstuffs to create a safe pedestrian walkway from the car park out onto Andover Road.

A further meeting is planned between SWT, its contractors and Winchester City Council in January to agree the details.

The group also discussed the possibility of Winchester Station being staffed beyond midnight in future. At present all shifts end at 10pm.

Mr Hammond said: “With year on year increases in demand it is so important investment keeps coming forward and these seem like much-needed schemes.  I was really impressed with the benefits these projects will bring for Winchester.  Steve Brine has already briefed me on his ASK SWT event and I know he’s working hard on various issues it threw up, such as addressing the valid concerns local travellers have around their safety.”