RAIL operator GNER signalled the start of a multi-million pound investment in upgrading the region's train stations yesterday.

The company has joined forces with construction giant Shepherds of York, as well as Australian design agency Humphrey & Edwards, to work on a series of hi-tech improvements along the East Coast Main Line.

Design work for the scheme - which is due to be completed by the end of next year - will incorporate new travel centres, customer lounges and information points at key stations.

Darlington and York stations are among those in line for major upgrades, with extra parking, CCTV cameras and refurbished subways.

Enhanced toilet blocks, new cycle racks, improved public address systems and signposts are also in the pipeline.

The awarding of the design contract is the latest phase of GNER's £100m two-year franchise extension investment programme.

GNER chief executive, Christopher Garnett, said: "This contract award is a further sign of GNER's continuing commitment to improve facilities and services to customers at every point of contact, whether at-station, on-train or elsewhere.

"We at GNER are absolutely delighted to welcome Shepherds of York and Humphrey & Edwards on board, bringing a wealth of experience and expertise to GNER's station improvements programme."

The award of the project design work will soon be followed by the award of a construction contract, which GNER will be putting out to tender this autumn.

Alan Rowlinson, chief executive of Shepherds, said: "It is especially pleasing to team up with GNER on this exciting design project, which will see enhanced customer service for rail passengers."

Between now and 2005, GNER is investing £100m in an intensive programme of improvements to all its trains and stations.