Rail passengers will benefit from the construction of a brand-new station at Uckfield, Network Rail has confirmed.

Construction is due to begin this autumn after it was concluded that the existing station is no longer fit for purpose.

Network Rail's Sussex route director Fiona Taylor said that the new station is "great news" for passengers travelling from Uckfield.

"The current station building needs to be upgraded to provide facilities which are more appropriate for the modern passenger," she explained.

In addition to passenger benefits, Network Rail has estimated that the maintenance costs at the station could be reduced by as much as 75 per cent.

These savings could then be invested elsewhere in the country's railway network.

Due for completion early next year, the station will consist of two platforms, a footbridge a station building made from both bricks and timber and a small canopy towards the front of the structure.

It was announced last month that a new station building had been given the go-ahead at Smitham station.