A busy North Yorkshire bus station is set to have a £500,000 makeover.

North Yorkshire Council has announced a £500k scheme to refurbish the 'gateway' to Tadcaster - its bus station - in what they say will encourage more visitors to come and support local businesses.

North Yorkshire Council’s executive member for open for business, Cllr Mark Crane, said: "The bus station and the surrounding area needs a complete refresh to be a welcoming place for our visitors and residents. It will further compliment the works previously undertaken by the former Selby District Council a few years ago.

Tadcaster bus station (Image: North Yorkshire Council) "We hope that will then lead to more footfall in the town centre and bring a welcome boost for the shops and local businesses."

Included in the scheme is the renovation of the 'Tadkebab' fast food building and a clean-up of the surrounding area.

Cllr Kirsty Poskitt, who represents the Tadcaster division on North Yorkshire Council, added: "The bus station improvements are long overdue and very welcome. This area of the town is well used and the entryway for many people to Tadcaster.

"We’ve listened to the community and made sure that the changes are beneficial to all. The new toilet facilities and real-time bus information will both have a positive impact on those that use the area."

Tadcaster bus station (Image: North Yorkshire Council) The project is being managed by Align, the council’s building design consultancy.

"We’re delighted to be overseeing this exciting project, working alongside our council colleagues, and I’m sure it will make a positive difference to those living and visiting Tadcaster," architectural technologist at Align, Jonathan Glew, said.

"We are passionate about quality construction and design. We hope these renovations will help encourage more people to spend time in the town and enjoy everything it has to offer."

The council say that the building’s structure will also be fully renovated, the bus canopy renewed and the path will be widened and a lighting column relocated. Stonework will be pressure-washed and graffiti removed.

The scheme starts on December 2 and is due to take four months.