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First glimpse at Birmingham Moor Street station transformation plans

New images show what a redeveloped Birmingham Moor Street station could look like as part of plans to make way for growing passenger numbers and to link Birmingham New Street with planned HS2 services at Curzon Street.

Aimed at creating a station that’s fit for the future, the proposals would see the size of the concourse more than doubled from 910m2 to 2000m2, and the introduction of two new platforms.

The plans form a central part of the ‘one station’ concept by ensuring seamless links with Curzon Street and New Street stations. Work will also include an iconic new transfer deck with access to every platform and links to a new footbridge.

Passenger numbers at Moor Street are expected to grow from 7 million to 12 million a year by 2043, with further increases expected as a result of the Midlands Rail Hub and the arrival of HS2 in 2026.

A second entrance to the south of the station is proposed to improve passenger flow, avoid overcrowding and create better access to the revitalised Digbeth area and proposed £1.5 billion Smithfield development. 

The plans maintain and respect the historic, Grade II listed entrance and concourse of the station, dating back to 1914, with modern architecture that complements the existing building.

Andy Street, mayor of the West Midlands, said: "We have big plans for transport in the West Midlands and the expansion of Moor Street is a crucial part of that. This vision for Moor Street will not only provide a better experience for commuters but with two extra platforms, it will set the foundation for the future expansion of rail services."

Furthermore, there are also several options to improve pedestrian access between Moor Street and New Street, including a safe, well-lit and direct route via St Martin’s Queensway; new steps and a ramp at Swan Passage, adjacent to the new Primark development; and a new ramped route from Rotunda Square to New Street Station.

Tom Wilne, project director at HS2 Ltd, said: “Birmingham is on the precipice of a transport revolution. HS2 and the plans to develop transport connections across the region will bring economic regeneration, jobs and business growth. We’re pleased to see plans progressing for Moor Street station and look forward to continuing to work with our partners across the region.”

The artists’ impressions were designed by architecture firms Grimshaw and Glenn Howells Architects who also worked together on designs for HS2’s Curzon Street Station.

Maria Machancoses, director of Midlands Connect, added: “By expanding Moor Street and introducing new platforms we will be ensuring that, alongside other vital infrastructure improvements, we will be providing the Midlands and indeed the UK with another world class gateway into the region, increasing the number of trains coming in to and out of Birmingham from across the Midlands, through our flagship Midlands Rail Hub plans.”

If you would like to contact Ryan Tute about this, or any other story, please email rtute@infrastructure-intelligence.com.