Birmingham City Council has officially approved the revised design plans for HS2’s Curzon Street Station, clearing the way for full construction of what is set to become one of the most iconic infrastructure landmarks in the UK’s high-speed rail network.
The HS2 Curzon Street Station final design approval was granted during a planning meeting on May 8, where councillors expressed frustration over delays and emphasized the station’s importance in delivering the long-promised economic boost to Birmingham.
Curzon Street Station will serve as the Birmingham terminus of the high-speed line connecting the city to London. First granted outline planning consent in 2020, the station has since undergone a series of design refinements to align with evolving safety standards, engineering demands, and cost-effectiveness.
Revised Designs Bring Future-Proofing and Urban Integration
The updated plans, submitted by HS2’s construction partner Mace Dragados Joint Venture (MDJV), include a material shift from timber to aluminium for the station’s roof in response to new fire safety regulations. Other key changes feature simplified façades using graffiti-resistant ceramic tiling, improved access between platforms, and a redesigned southern entrance with covered areas for public use. Cycle parking has also been prioritized, with provisions for a potential future hub.
At the council meeting, Cllr Gareth Moore voiced support for the project and the final HS2 Curzon Street Station design while urging urgency. “For us to get those benefits, we need the station,” he said. “It’s pretty damning that more progress has been made with that infamous bat shed than the actual station that’s needed.”
Construction work on the site began in 2024, with major earthworks already in progress. Foundation work is expected to start this autumn, followed by the main structural build in 2026. The station is projected to open between 2029 and 2033.
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A New Era for Birmingham’s Connectivity
Once completed, Curzon Street Station will become the first new intercity rail terminus in Britain since the 19th century. Designed for modern, sustainable travel, it is expected to drive regeneration in Eastside and Digbeth and reduce journey times to central London to just 49 minutes.
Dave Lock, HS2’s Project Client Director for Curzon Street Station, welcomed the approval: “These design refinements mark a key step in enhancing the detailed features of Curzon Street Station, which will be an iconic gateway to Birmingham for future HS2 passengers.”
Jason Millett, board member for MDJV, added: “These refinements will enhance the station further, enable the use of future-proofed materials, and will now be shared with the community as we gear up for work on the main station structure.”
Architect Neven Sidor, partner at Grimshaw and lead on the architectural design, said: “The original design vision has not only been maintained but also enhanced through the detailed design process. HS2 Curzon Street Station final design is more robust, more efficient to build, and just as elegant.”
City planners concluded that the project maintains its promise of world-class design. With minimal additional impact on heritage assets and infrastructure. It is expected to boost economic growth and attract investment. The project will also create jobs and support housing developments in the city centre.
With final design approval now in place, Birmingham takes a major step forward. The city is positioning itself as a key player in Britain’s rail and economic landscape.
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HS2 Curzon Street Station: Project Factsheet
Overview
Curzon Street Station will serve as Birmingham’s terminus for the HS2 high-speed rail network connecting the city to London. The station will be the first new intercity terminus built in Britain since the 19th century.
Timeline
Initial planning approval: 2020
Construction start: 2024 (earthworks phase)
Foundation work: Autumn 2025
Main structure construction: Beginning 2026
Operational date: Between 2029-2033
Recent Developments
Revised design approval: May 8, 2025
Construction partner: Mace Dragados Joint Venture (MDJV)
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