Dozens of stations could benefit from improvements ranging from new waiting facilities, park and ride schemes, better access, security and customer information on platforms.

Mr Jones said, “Building a modern, safe and sustainable transport system for Wales is essential for the economic regeneration of the region as well as for its environmental benefits.

“This programme will not only encourage greater use of rail services - helping reduce road congestion in and around towns and cities - it will also improve access for everyone, including rural communities, people with disabilities and those arriving at stations by foot or on bike.

“Upgrading our major transport hubs as well as smaller stations across the region will increase inward investment, employment opportunities and visitors who will arrive at their destinations through attractive gateways.�

Developed in partnership with Network Rail and Arriva Trains Wales, the aim of this wide ranging programme is to increase use of rail services to access jobs, shops and recreation for a wide range of customers including those with disabilities.

The £21m announced today, which comes from the Convergence European Regional Development Fund, is to support previously announced funding from the Welsh Assembly Government, Network Rail, Arriva Trains Wales, and the Department of Transport.

Chris Rayner, route director, Network Rail said, "Britain relies on rail. A robust railway is very often the heartbeat for a growing economy and it needs to be supported by well-equipped stations across the network. Good stations can often be catalysts for rail demand and future investments in the regeneration of towns and cities. We know modern stations are important to passengers in Wales and we want to achieve even more successes for them. We need businesses and local government to continue to voice their support for rail and its part in the prosperous economy.�

Ian Bullock, Customer Services Director for Arriva Trains Wales said, “These plans will deliver additional schemes and bring forward the delivery of station improvements, bringing more of our stations in Wales up to a higher standard thus better meeting the expectations of our passengers who tell us how important stations are to their journey experience on rail."

Mr Jones, who is also the Minister for the Economy and Transport, added: “EU funding provides extra resources to back up our commitment set out in our Economic Renewal Programme to drive forward a 21st century integrated transport network for Wales.�

All works are due for completion by 2014 and build on the current NSIP programme which is aimed at delivering improvements to increase passenger perception of security, to improve access and egress, to enhance the overall presentation of the station and to improve information provision and other facilities.