An end to the long wait for lift access to Earlsfield Station is edging closer after work began on an £8m refurbishment project.

Network Rail this week released new images showing how the popular station will look following the major revamp.

Tooting MP Sadiq Khan, who has campaigned for the improvements for the past six years, welcomed the news funding was secure and work was beginning.

He said "work cannot begin soon enough" - but warned residents and commuters could expect some disruption over the coming months.

Mr Khan added: "It’s been a long drawn out process, and I’ve had to keep up pressure on government ministers and Network Rail, but at least work has begun.

"Amidst huge cuts to transport programmes, it’s great news that we’ve been able to protect this funding - which will ensure that people with limited mobility, pregnant women, parents with buggies and older residents will have easy access to their station."

Malcolm Page, station development manager, South West Trains, said: "Passengers in Earlsfield rely on rail for 2.8 million journeys every year, reflecting its importance to the community and local economy."

Improvements to the station will include a new booking hall, an enhanced entrance and new frontage, a new staircase, roof, lift and walkway to platform 3, as well as a new lift and walkway to platforms 1 and 2, new canopies on platforms 2 and 3 and additional ticket machines.

Major construction work is due to start in late Autumn, with all work due to be completed by summer 2012. Network Rail has said train services "should be largely unaffected".

The project is being funded through the Government’s Access for All scheme, South West Trains, Wandsworth Council and the national stations improvement programme.

• What do you think? Let us know by emailing imason@london.newsquest.co.uk or leave a comment below.