HS2 Ltd has announced that construction has commenced on Birmingham Curzon Street Station.
This site will be the first brand-new intercity terminus station built in Britain since the 19th Century. It will operate with net zero carbon while serving high-speed trains between London and Birmingham.
The new station will be established over a five-year station construction programme, which has been developed with HS2’s contractor Mace Dragados Joint Venture (MDJV).
MDJV will now deliver major earthworks to prepare the site for piling and foundation work in the spring. Construction of the main station building is then due to start in the summer.
“Curzon Street will become one of the most environmentally friendly stations in the world, and the gateway to Birmingham for future HS2 passengers. The start of construction represents significant progress for the UK’s largest infrastructure project, demonstrating real momentum in building the line that will transform rail travel for generations to come.”
Birmingham Curzon Street Station was designed in partnership with Grimshaw Architects LLP with inspiration from Victorian railway pioneers to include great arched roofs.
It also assures 21st Century accessibility and a focus on open space.
“This is a major milestone for HS2 in the West Midlands, as work begins on this brand new iconic structure in the city. The connectivity created by Birmingham Curzon Street Station and its public realm will create far-reaching social and economic opportunities across Birmingham’s Eastside by linking together the learning and creative quarters, new residential developments and the city centre.”
Trains will approach Birmingham through a series of structures being delivered by HS2’s main works contractor for the West Midlands, Balfour Beatty VINCI (BBV). This includes the 3.5-mile Bromford Tunnel and a series of five connected viaducts.
Work on the station is expected to continue until 2028. Construction for the station façade will begin in Summer 2025, while work on the concourse steelwork and the roof is due to start in Autumn 2025.
The internal fit-out of the station will start towards the end of 2025 and will be completed at the end of 2028. Meanwhile, operational testing and commissioning will run from Summer 2026 to Autumn 2028.
“Commencing construction on Curzon Street Station is a landmark moment for HS2, for our region and for the entire country. Building Curzon Street will create hundreds of jobs for local people and upgrade our rail infrastructure for the 21st Century.
“This brand new station is a clear example of the tangible benefits HS2 can deliver in the months and years ahead.”
