Hundreds of extra car parking spaces are being created at Staplehurst train station.

An expansion costing £1.1million is currently underway to upgrade the car park to provide around 300 extra spaces.

CCTV coverage and lighting will also be bolstered to improve security at the Southeastern station.

Work to convert land adjacent to the current car park began in April and is expected to finish in the autumn.

As part of the expansion, Southeastern is also adapting the existing car park's design to ensure better access for pedestrians and traffic.

Steve Martin, facilities project manager at Southeastern, said: "We're pleased to be able to make this investment in expanding the car park at Staplehurst station as we know it's what a lot of our regular customers have been asking for.

"Over the next few months people should begin to see a big difference."

The expansion works are part of a £78 million programme to improve comfort and access on Southeastern trains.

The rail firm says neighbours near Station Approach are being updated throughout the works.

Helen Grant, member of parliament for Maidstone and The Weald said: "I am pleased that this much needed upgrade to the car park at Staplehurst Station is now underway.

"I have, over recent years, shared with Southeastern a range of my constituents’ concerns about the Staplehurst station car park and I also hope that this will be part of a wider drive to boost capacity and facilities at our rural stations across Maidstone and the Weald."