The London station, which is one of the capital's busiest, will be improved by the addition of a new platform, which will be three times the size of the current concourse.

Meanwhile, the terminus' south-facing side will be revamped and unveiled to the public for the first time in over 30 years and a host of new shops will be built.

Funding for the improvements will come from the Department for Transport in conjunction with Network Rail.

Deputy chief executive of Network Rail, Iain Coucher, said: "The restoration of King's Cross fits into wide-ranging plans to upgrade London's leading stations. It will create a world-class station for all passengers and offer a fitting entrance to the capital for domestic and international travellers."

According to current estimates, passenger numbers at the station are set to increase to 50 million annually by 2015.

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Camden approves £400m Kings Cross revamp

Building: 23 April, 2007
By Dan Stewart

Local council gives thumbs up to Network Rail's plans for the redevelopment of King's Cross station

Network Rail’s £400m plan to redevelop King’s Cross station has been approved by Camden Borough Council.

The decision means 10m additional passengers will pass through its gates every year. Network Rail plans to triple the size of the concourse area, and cover it with a glass and aluminium roof.

The development will also see the construction of a £6m piazza and a £15m platform to accommodate trains during the rush hour. The original Grade-I listed southern façade of the station, designed by Lewis Cubitt in 1851, will be uncovered for the first time since 1972.

The project is part of the wider regeneration of the area masterplanned by Allies & Morrison. The station’s designs were by A&M and Demetri Porphyrios.

Deputy chief executive of Network Rail Ian Coucher said: “We will produce a station which takes renewed pride in its rich history, while introducing excellent modern features to give a stamp of 21st century design.”

Work is due to begin in the next few months, with completion anticipated in time for the 2012 Olympics.