Work on the new station should be completed in 2009

Work to dismantle and rebuild the platform canopies will take place in four phases between February 2008 and June 2009.

The station will remain open although certain platforms will have to close at various stages of the project.

A spokesman said the aim was to ensure that disruption to passengers would be kept to a minimum.

Structural damage

In 2005 engineers discovered faults in the concrete which make up the existing canopies.

Structural assessments showed that the structures, built in the 1950s, could not be repaired.

Network Rail route director Dyan Crowther said: "This major investment will transform Derby into a bright, modern station fit for the city and the thousands of passengers who use it every day.

"This is a big job and to minimise disruption we will be completing the project in phases to keep the station open for passengers and train services throughout."