Councillors are pressing the Government to give a rail operator a 20-year franchise so it can replace Haywards Heath station.

Mid Sussex District Council wants the agreement signed as soon as possible so Govia, the preferred bidder for the Brighton line franchise, can get on with replacing the station.

The council wants the station area redeveloped to include new buildings and a multi-storey car park.

Discussions have been going on since 1995 but the council does not own the land and cannot do the work itself.

It is lobbying for the 20-year agreement so Govia can put the maximum investment into the station.

Govia has taken over the Brighton line early and the length of the franchise has not been decided.

Councillor David King said: "I believe the development of the station site is one of the most important Haywards Heath and Mid Sussex have had for many years.

"I believe this is going to impact on the town in so many ways and yet it seems to be bogged down."

Govia spokesman Martin Walter said: "As part of the franchise deal we would refurbish all the stations, including Haywards Heath."