Rail Minister Paul Maynard has revealed further funding for the construction of new train stations to boost local economies, deliver higher quality journeys and link communities in England and Wales.

The Department for Transport (DfT) said that the £20 million worth of funding would provide up to 75% of the construction costs for new stations or to re-open stations that have been shut down.

The aim of the investment is to improve rail network access and create new travel, housing and employment opportunities.

The first round of funding will help to construct new stations in London, Lea Bridge, Pye Corner, Devon and Newcourt, while stations are currently being delivered in Kenilworth near Coventry, Derbyshire and Ilkeston.

Network Rail Director of Stations, Norrie Courts, commented: “These are important stations for passengers who rely on the railway every day, and the announcement of additional investment to undertake a further round of new stations is welcomed.”

The DfT revealed that the already completed schemes have seen towns connected and homes constructed, which provided a boost to local economies.

Maynard explained: “Through this fund, passengers will benefit from new connections and faster journeys, making it easier to get to work and visit friends and family. It will also provide a major boost for local economies and support the delivery of local housing developments.”

The DfT has encouraged a number of organisations, including train operating firms and local authorities, to bid for work on the scheme.

The deadline for bidders is 18 November, 2016. Successful projects are expected to be announced early next year.

Meanwhile, the DfT has unveiled a shortlist of five potential routes for a Trans-Pennine road tunnel between Manchester and Sheffield.

Ministers have said that this is the most ambitious road scheme since the construction of the first motorways 50 years ago, and both the DfT and Transport for the North (TfN) have identified the scheme as a priority in their strategic plans.