A STUDY is underway to find out how to build the best transport connections between the airport, Birmingham International Station, the NEC and the new HS2 Interchange Station.
The plans that emerge could see the building of the first major pieces of infrastructure off the back of the proposed High Speed 2 Interchange Station in Solihull.
The aim will be to create a new integrated public transport hub that will provide visitors, business people and residents with seamless links between Birmingham Airport, and its expanding global destinations, the NEC, Genting Arena and the Genting Resorts World complex.
The hub will also link with the HS2 Automated People Mover – which will transfer people onto the mainline rail network and tram services through north Solihull to the centre of Birmingham city.
Councillor Ted Richards, cabinet member for transport at Solihull Council, said: “This is a crucial project that will promote transport connections between the new HS2 station and Birmingham Airport.
“It will be a truly significant piece of infrastructure that will transform the passenger and visitor experience.”
In partnership with West Midlands Integrated Transport Authority (ITA), Birmingham Airport and the NEC, Solihull Council has commissioned Mott MacDonald in association with Grimshaw Architects to undertake the study.
Expressing Mott MacDonalds’ ‘delight’ to be involved in the project, Ashely Taylor, divisional director for the company’s Birmingham office, said: “We are excited to help solve the complex technical challenges this project presents, while recognising the huge benefits it will bring for our staff that live or work in the region.
“We’ve been active in the West Midlands for over 50 years and have over 250 staff working in our West Midlands offices.”
Welcoming the news, deputy leader of Solihull Council and cabinet member for Managed Growth, Coun Ian Courts added: “This infrastructure will help create a new and vibrant place that will link two major economic assets, Birmingham Airport and the NEC in the UK Central Hub.
“We are creating a truly unique place in the UK, building new homes, enabling new business that will provide jobs and places for visitors to enjoy and relax.
“I look forward to working with Mott MacDonald, with their global experience in designing major infrastructure helping us to realise our ambition.”
