Millions of pounds of extra funding is being given to regenerate areas around future Crossrail stations, including Ilford, Seven Kings, Goodmayes and Chadwell Heath.

Transport for London has approved a �30million contribution to Crossrail’s “public realm scheme”, which aims to improve public spaces as well as the stations themselves.

Suggested improvements include wider pavements, pedestrianised areas, traffic calming, improved transport interchanges, trees, seating areas and meeting places designed to integrate with local character.

Cllr Balvinder Saund said the money for regeneration was “welcomed” but station improvements are a priority.

Seven Kings station was going to be given step-free access in line with other stops on the route and Ilford train station was going to be completely rebuilt but the plans were dropped in 2011.

Cllr Bob Littlewood said: “No one ever gave a reason why Seven Kings was chosen for the cut.

“The lift at Chadwell Heath only works at some times of the day.

“People should have equal access, whichever station they choose to use.”

Developers believe Crossrail will spark home-building and regeneration in the areas around stations.

At least 1,500 new homes are planned for Ilford High Road, as well as around Seven Kings and Goodmayes.

The company building the railway also started a Tunnelling and Underground Construction Academy to train young people in Lugg Approach Ilford.

Ilford South MP Mike Gapes is the chairman of the All-Party Crossrail Group.

He said: “I hope that some of the new funding will go towards my constituency.

“I think its very important that residents are consulted on how it will be spent.”

Crossrail will replace the Greater Anglia “Metro” stopping service between London Liverpool Street and Shenfield.

The �15.9billion network, from Maidenhead in Berkshire and Heathrow in the west to Shenfield in Essex and Abbey Wood, Kent, in the east, is due open in 2018.