BIRMINGHAM Moor Street station – a destination from many stations in Solihull, Leamington and Stratford – is set to undergo a major transformation.
It will see two new platforms built to cope with the expected increase of five million passengers per year by 2043.
Transport chiefs have revealed early design ideas for the station which will retain its historic grade II-listed entrance from 1914 while a second access point will serve Digbeth.
The proposals also include the option to more than double the size of the concourse, a transfer deck with access to every platform and links to a new footbridge taking passengers directly to the city centre HS2 station via a public square.
There are also several options to improve pedestrian access between Moor Street and New Street, including a direct route via St Martin’s Queensway, and steps and a ramp at Swan Passage adjacent to the new Primark.
Transport for West Midlands say passenger numbers at Moor Street are expected to grow from seven million to 12million a year by 2043, with further increases expected as a result of the Midlands Rail Hub and the arrival of HS2 in 2026.
These initial concepts have developed by West Midlands Rail Executive in collaboration with Transport for West Midlands, Midlands Connect, Network Rail, HS2 Ltd, Chiltern Railways, West Midlands Railway and Birmingham City Council as part plans for Birmingham’s regeneration.
West Midlands Mayor, Andy Street said: “We have big plans for transport in the West Midlands and the expansion of Moor Street is a crucial part of that.
“Our game-changing plans for HS2 and new metro and rail lines are already driving investment, new jobs and apprenticeships as well as bringing communities closer to those work, training and education opportunities.
“This whole area of Birmingham will be revitalised over the next few years as the world’s largest Primark opens, Curzon Street HS2 station is built, and Moor Street is transformed.
“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.”
Alan Riley, customer services director, Chiltern Railways said: “As the station operator it’s vital to us to plan for the future and ensure that Birmingham Moor Street station is ready to play a crucial role in the Midlands Rail Hub and to be a gateway to HS2 services for the region.
“The images we’re sharing today are a hugely exciting glimpse of what the future could look like for the station and we stand ready to play an important role in the project.”
