Coulsdon South station will soon become "obstacle free" as plans for a multi-million pound upgrade are approved.

Late last year Network Rail submitted a planning application to Croydon Council to install a new footbridge at one end of the station and to build new lifts and stairs at both platforms.

"The existing non-compliant footbridge will be retained and remain in service," the report submitted as part of the application said.

"It has, over time, become a regular through route for local people, although it is not a right of way.

"Platforms one and two will be locally widened to allow access to the proposed staircases, lifts and lift motor rooms.

"The existing pedestrian access to and from the station remains unchanged along with the ticket office."

Network Rail’s route managing director for the south east, John Halsall, said the plan would make the station as a whole more accessible.

“These improvements will make travelling by train much easier for people with reduced mobility, people with buggies, bags and bikes, and they will make a real difference to how people get around," he said.

"Train travel should be for everyone, and while there are historic reasons as to why not all our stations are accessible, we remain focussed on making improvements to as many as we can."

As a result of the works, the taxi office will be demolished and the waiting shelter as well as the bike shelters will be permanently relocated.

It is anticipated the works will be completed within the next two years.