Plans for the refurbishment of Perth railway station “lack ambition” and should be improved, it has been claimed.
Mid-Scotland and Fife MSP Murdo Fraser said there was scope for the station to become one of the best such facilities in Scotland.
However, he believes the planned investment does not go far enough to rejuvenate what could be a hugely attractive building.
ScotRail is finalising designs for the refurbishment of public toilets at the station, having secured finances through the Station Investment Fund.
Work is expected to be completed within the next couple of months.
Network Rail, meanwhile, is developing plans to install three new lifts and a footbridge at the station to provide step-free access to all platforms.
In this case, the work will be funded through the Department for Transport’s Access for All Fund and is expected to start late next year.
That is in addition to the £350,000 invested to renew the Customer Information System, as well as installing CCTV and expanding the station car park.
Full details of the plans were revealed in the Scottish Parliament by Transport Minister Keith Brown after he was questioned by Mr Fraser.
While welcoming the improvements the MSP admitted he had been disappointed that they were not more far-reaching.
“I welcome upgrades to Perth train station, including plans for new lifts and a footbridge to provide step-free access to all platforms, which is an important improvement,” Mr Fraser said.
“I want to see ambitious plans for Perth train station.
“There is very little at Perth train station, while there are shops, bars and many kiosks at other stations across Scotland.
“Just now Edinburgh Waverley is seeing a massive investment and refurbishment, but there are no grand plans for Perth station.”
He added, “Many commuters that use Perth train station believe it requires upgrading as its appearance and current facilities are not adequate for its rail users.
“I frequently have Perthshire constituents tell me the station is unwelcoming, cold and lacks choice of amenities.
“I believe Perth train station is a grand building and it can be transformed into one of the best train stations in Scotland if there is a clear vision for it.”