TAUNTON residents have had their say on what they want the revamped train station to look like.

MP Rebecca Pow, who has been spearheading the campaign for a £22.9 million redevelopment of the railway station, issued a survey to residents on what aspects they wanted it to incorporate.

As reported by the County Gazette, the transformation of the station could see the main entrance to re-sited to the south side.

The station is expected to experience a 40 per cent increase in passenger numbers leading up to 2020, and it is hoped the redevelopment will allow the station and the town become a gateway to the South West.

More than 500 people responded to the survey issued by Ms Pow, with many calling for better parking and transport links to be part of the plans.

More than 75 per cent of respondents saying they would welcome a new multi-storey car park to help with parking, with many residents angry at commuters parking outside their houses on nearby streets.

A huge 93.7 per cent stated they thought a new bus interchange would be valuable to the area, and 92.7 per cent said that new cycle routes from the station, through Firepool and to the centre of town would be welcome.

The design and aesthetic look of the station also figured prominently. Ninety-two per cent said that the style of buildings was important, with almost 50 per cent saying that they wanted it to be designed in keeping with local surroundings.

However, respondents were split on what type of artwork they would like to see, with more than 30 per cent saying they wanted a fountain, 34 per cent said a sculpture and 36 per cent wanted a mosaic.

Seventy-five per cent of the respondents did admit that they were concerned about the level of disruption during the development.

Commenting on the survey, Ms Pow said: "The rail transformation project will make a significant difference to the area, making Taunton a major South West transport hub and catering for a projected increase in passengers.

"I want to ensure that those living locally have a say on how this project looks and affects people locally so that everyone is happy.

"I was delighted with the response to my local survey which hundreds of people responded to. It is clear that there is overwhelming support for the project with the importance of cycling facilities and bus connections being a priority.

"The overall image is important to people too with many in favour of an iconic piece of sculpture at the station as well as a multi storey car park that not only works well but looks attractive.

"Thanks to everyone who took part and I shall be feeding these ideas into Great Western Rail and Network Rail."