The upgrade will include the installation of four new lifts to provide step-free access between the entrance, subway and all platforms. A new gate line and four additional openings will be created to help ease congestion and there will also be new customer information screens installed.

The staircase which leads to the underground station will be reconstructed to align with the new concourse and new canopies will be built at the front of the station and on all platforms.

The improvement work is being funded through the government’s national stations improvement programme and Access For All schemes.

Richard O’Brien, Network Rail’s route managing director for Wessex, said: “These improvements will better equip Vauxhall station to handle the increasing number of passengers who use it every day. They will make the station more accessible for everyone, provide better links with the Underground station and ease congestion, all of which will be a huge improvement for passengers.”

Malcolm Page, estate manager for South West Trains said: “The improvements to Vauxhall station will make life easier for everyone to use the train, especially those with reduced mobility or with small children. South West Trains services will remain unchanged and station facilities will be open throughout the work.”

The new concourse is scheduled to open in summer 2012.