SOLIHULL Council has recruited a leading British architect in a bid to ensure the new HS2 line and interchange meets the borough’s high expectations.
Sadie Morgan, co-founder of London architecture firm dRMM and chair of the national Design Panel for HS2, has been recruited by Council bosses to chair Solihull’s own HS2 Design Panel.
The panel was created in the hopes of ensuring the HS2 Interchange station and train line which will be built in the borough meet high quality design, environmental and sustainability standards.
Councillor Ian Courts, cabinet member for managed growth and deputy leader of Solihull Council, said: “Sadie agreeing to Chair our design panel is a real coup for Solihull.
“It is testament to our ambition for the Interchange station and for HS2 in Solihull.
“We are implacable in wanting the best design possible for the station and all the bridges, embankments, landscaping and other works that will be part of the route through Solihull.”
“The design of the infrastructure needs to meet our ambitions for Solihull, alongside those of our residents and stakeholders.
“I am really looking forward to working closely with Sadie as we embark on this exciting journey.”
Ms Morgan, who provides advice on £100 billion of Governement investment as a member of the National Infrastructure Commission, will be joined by 15 other panel members also drawn from the main HS2 Design Panel whose expertise range from town planning and landscape architecture to rail operation and structural engineering.
Commenting on her appointment, Ms Morgan said: “I am passionate about design and want the UK to be recognised for ambitious public architecture.
“So, it’s great that Solihull has recognised the importance of design quality for the HS2 Station at Birmingham Interchange.
“Great design is not an expensive add-on. It is fundamental to delivering successful and popular buildings and infrastructure.
“I am pleased to have been given the chance to influence the design of the UK’s biggest ever infrastructure project, including the HS2 station in Solihull.
“I look forward to working with my fellow panel members to help deliver a station that will match Solihull’s ambitions for the borough as a whole.”
The Interchange station will be the first stop for the HS2 train and will be closely linked to Birmingham International station and airport, and the M6, M42 and M5 motorways.
