Work has started on a £2.7m project to improve the accessibility of Kilmarnock railway station.

The project will deliver step-free access across the station as art of the Access for All scheme which is designed to improve access within stations for people with impaired mobility or travelling with luggage or children.

The underpass will be lowered, regraded and resurfaced and the staircases and handrails will be renewed.

Network Rail advise that passengers may experience some day-to-day inconvenience but the station will remain open throughout.

Work is scheduled to be completed by December 2018.

Willie Coffey MSP said: "Kilmarnock station is an important entry point to the town for a growing number of visitors and so we warmly welcome any investment that makes it easier for people to travel through the station when they get here.

"The new step-free access to all platforms will undoubtedly make travelling easier for those with mobility issues, the elderly, parents travelling with prams or buggies or people with luggage.

Step-free access across the station will improve the overall rail journey experience for everyone in our community."