The first part of a huge development project around Sutton Station has been officially opened.

A new entrance, which opens out onto The Quadrant and has a pathway to Brighton Road, has been in use for nearly a month, and was opened last week

The extra access is the first milestone in the £1.3m overhaul of the station, which is being funded by Sutton Council, Transport for London, and Southern Rail.

Refitted shop fronts, paving, and newly planted trees, will improve the look of the area, and more lighting and CCTV cameras will make the station safer for commuters.

A town centre clock will accompany new shops, and a Marks and Spencer has opened up within the station replacing the Whistle Stop branch.

Cycling facilities will be expanded, with extra bike shelters and racks set to be installed.

Councillor Simon Wales, Chairman of the Sutton Gateway Board, which is co-ordinating the project, said:

"Sutton Station is the main gateway to our borough and we wanted to create an environment that is welcoming to commuters and breathes new life to the area. 

"These changes will make it easier to use public transport, improve the look of our streets and shop fronts and encourage more people to walk and cycle."

Sutton Council has reported the work will take around six months to complete.