RAILTRACK is due to start work next month on a £5m refurbishment programme for Sunderland's railway station.
The major upgrade is being carried out as part of the £98m extension of the Tyneside Metro to Wearside.
The state of the underground station has been criticised by Sunderland City Council and rail campaigners.
A spokesman for Railtrack said: "It will be a comprehensive refurbishment, improving station facilities, access and the whole environment throughout.
"Sunderland is a major station and we are looking at a complete transformation of the existing facilities to a modern underground station. Like Newcastle Central Station, it will have a high quality finish.
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