The region’s public transport developer Centro-WMPTA and key partners in the project to redevelop New Street station today welcomed the Department for Transport’s (DfT) decision to give the green light to Network Rail’s £128 million contribution to the crucial scheme.
The New Street Gateway plan will see the 1960s built station undergo a dramatic redevelopment, transforming the dark, crowded underground station into a bright, modern 21st Century transport hub for the entire region.
The work is expected to more than double passenger and train handling capacity, relieve congestion and be a catalyst for creating more than 5,000 jobs. Linked to the project would be the redevelopment of the surrounding area which would include the installation of better pedestrian connections right across the city centre.
Cllr Gary Clarke, Chairman of Centro-WMPTA said: “The region’s rail network carries 33 million passengers a year, and is also the hub of the UK network. It is vital to both the regional, and UK economy. It is essential that New Street is transformed and we support the Government's decision to back Gateway in its High Level Output Statement”
In total the New Street Steering Committee has bid for £350 million in public money to fund the redevelopment, which once secured should unlock a further £200 million in private sector investment for the scheme.
Cllr Whitby, Chairman of the New Street Gateway Steering Committee, urged the Government to make a swift decision on the outstanding applications for funding to allow the £550 million project to go ahead, saying:
“The proposed redevelopment of New Street Station is one of the key elements in our plans for a £10 billion total transformation of the city centre over the next 10 years, as outlined in the Masterplan.
“The scheme is essential for Birmingham to maintain and develop its hard won international status and future as a vibrant 21st century city. We now look forward to further Government commitments which will enable the city council and the steering group to push ahead their ambitious plans. In order the deliver the scheme it is essential that all the funding is secured, as quickly as possible.”
John Edwards, Chief Executive of Advantage West Midlands, added: “The future prosperity of the West Midlands rests on Birmingham having a station which creates the right first impression for the region. We have assessed plans for New Street and the Gateway scheme offers the best solution to unlock the regional economy and drive growth still further. We welcome the announcement of this first tranche of funding.”
Martin Chambers, Programme Director for New Street at Network Rail, added: “Every year more people use New Street station than Gatwick – equating to twice as many as originally planned. Network Rail has made redeveloping New Street station a top priority in our plans for the national rail network, and we welcome the Government’s commitment to this vital project. The Gateway scheme will unlock growth at New Street and offer passengers the kind of facilities they deserve.”
Link to DfT news release below:
