The first images of the £53 million upgrade at Gatwick Airport railway station have been revealed.

The scheme, funded by Network Rail and Gatwick Airport, will mean more reliable journeys and less congestion, according to rail bosses.

A new platform will be constructed along with a replacement stairway with an escalator and new lift on platforms five and six.

The concourse area will be refurbished and the track and signalling will be improved.

Network Rail contributed £44.9 million to the scheme with Gatwick Airport giving £7.9 million.

Mark Ruddy, Network Rail route director for Sussex, said the funding had now been secured and that the work would go ahead whatever the outcome of the government’s spending review, due to be announced on Wednesday.

Work will begin next summer but the major construction work is not expected to start until autumn 2012 after the Olympic Games.

Mr Ruddy said foreign visitors using the airport to attend the Games would experience no disruption.

The improvements should be should be completed by the end of 2013.