Enhanced Design for Curzon Street

HS2 Ltd has revealed updated designs for its flagship station in Birmingham, driven by the need to enhance the passenger experience. 

Outline planning permission for Curzon Street station was granted in 2020. Since then, HS2 has appointed Mace Dragados Joint Venture (MDJV) as its construction partner, with responsibility for progressing the detailed design and construction of the station.

Curzon Street is set to become a key destination on HS2. The latest designs feature changes to seating space, as well as to accessibility - including more cycle parking and simplified access to platforms. There are also changes to construction materials, to boost efficiency and minimise maintenance.

The station’s great arched roof has been inspired by Victorian railway pioneers. Other design changes include rainfall capture in planted areas. The material on the station’s roof has also been changed from timber to aluminium, to provide for better fire safety and more cost-effective maintenance. 

Dave Lock, HS2’s Project Client Director for Curzon Street station, said: “These design refinements mark a key step in enhancing the detailed features of the station, which will be an iconic gateway to Birmingham for future HS2 passengers.

 “Once built, the station will strengthen Birmingham’s transport connections, support the regeneration of Eastside and Digbeth, and play a vital role in the long-term economic future of the West Midlands.”

Earlier this year it emerged that despite the scrapping of the northern leg of HS2 to Manchester, all platforms at the station will still be built (although they will not all be made operational as part of the HS2 programme, to avoid unnecessary costs). It means that there could be four unused platforms at the station when HS2 opens.

The latest design refinements have been achieved through MDJV, working with design partners Arcadis and WSP Joint Venture, along with Grimshaw architects. The changes will be submitted for approval to Birmingham City Council in late 2024.