A £50 million investment in one of the county's busiest railway stations has been welcomed. 

With the government set to unveil a £375m infrastructure investment plan, £50m has been set aside for the redevelopment of Gatwick Airport's railway station.

The plan, which will run over the next 20 years, is part of the Government's Davies Commission which is assessing the UKs airports.

The National Infrastructure Plan will invest approximately £375bn in energy, transport, communications and water projects.

A spokesman for Network Rail said: “As part of our work with the Airports Commission we have been asked to review plans for a future redevelopment of Gatwick Airport station.

“The initial funding announced today will allow us, working with Gatwick, to begin development of a scheme that will complement work this Christmas to deliver an additional platform at the station.”

A Southern Rail spokesman said: “Gatwick Airport is a key station for many of our passengers and, although we have not seen the specific details, investment in the railway is always welcome.”

London Gatwick celebrated its four year anniversary as a stand-alone airport earlier this week, competing head-on with Heathrow, Stansted and other major European airports for airlines and passengers.

Stewart Wingate, London Gatwick's chief executive, said: “Turning round the decades of under-investment in Gatwick, transforming it into a friendly and efficient place to visit, as well as ensuring the airport remains a major international gateway for London and the South East has been my priority over these last four years.

“I would say we are making good headway.

“Looking ahead, and as we enter our fifth year as a competing force in the market, my priorities for the airport won't change.

“We will remain focused on delivering high levels of service and affordable prices for our customers, and we will continue to compete for airlines that will help us connect the UK to established and strategic markets.

“That of course means competing for the UK's next runway.

“On that issue, I believe that a second runway at Gatwick is the most deliverable option that will give the UK the economic benefits it needs, at a far lower environmental cost and will ensure affordable fares for the next generation.”