Striking new images of a 'radical yet respectful' transformation of Moor Street station have been revealed as part of proposals for an ambitious redevelopment to create a station that’s fit for the future.

The concepts include options to more than double the size of the concourse from 910 square metres to 2000 square metres and introduce two new platforms to meet growing passenger demand at the station.

New platforms will, alongside other network infrastructure improvements, allow extra services to stop at Birmingham Moor Street from across the region, under Midlands Connect’s Midlands Rail Hub proposals to increase rail capacity to and from the East Midlands, Hereford, Worcester and the South West.

Passenger numbers at Moor Street are expected to grow from seven million to 12 million a year by 2043, with further increases expected as a result of the Midlands Rail Hub and the arrival of HS2 in 2026. The vision for Moor Street future-proofs the station to cope with its growing popularity.

The plans include an iconic new transfer deck with access to every platform and links to a new footbridge taking passengers directly to HS2 services from Curzon Street via a new public square.

There are also several options to improve pedestrian access between Moor Street and New Street, including a safe, well-lit and direct route via St Martin’s Queensway; new steps and a ramp at Swan Passage, adjacent to the new Primark development; and a new ramped route from Rotunda Square to New Street Station.

A second entrance to the south of the station is proposed to improve passenger flow, avoid overcrowding and create better access to the revitalised Digbeth area and proposed £1.5 billion Smithfield development. The plans maintain and respect the historic, Grade II listed entrance and concourse of the station, dating back to 1914, with modern architecture that complements the existing building.

These initial concepts are the first stage of a long-term plan to transform Moor Street in to a world class station experience, and place the station at the centre of Birmingham’s unprecedented regeneration. Andy Street, Mayor of the West Midlands, said:

“We have big plans for transport in the West Midlands and the expansion of Moor Street is a crucial part of that. Our game-changing plans for HS2 and new metro and rail lines are already driving investment, new jobs and apprenticeships as well as bringing communities closer to those work, training and education opportunities.

“This whole area of Birmingham will be revitalised over the next few years as the world’s largest Primark opens, Curzon Street HS2 station is built, and Moor Street is transformed. This vision for Moor Street will not only provide a better experience for commuters but with two extra platforms, it will set the foundation for the future expansion of rail services.”    

Cllr Roger Lawrence, chair of West Midlands Rail Executive, added:

“With a second entrance, more space and improved links to New Street Station and the new HS2 Curzon Street station, this vision will offer passengers a much more enjoyable and pleasant experience when visiting Moor Street.

"The extra platforms will also ensure that Moor Street is ready for extra services following the proposed development of the Camp Hill Chords, as part of the Midlands Rail Hub.”

The report, Birmingham Moor Street Station: The Vision, is the first stage in identifying potential concept options to ensure the station is fit for the future. Further feasibility studies are required to progress the preferred concept to a greater level of technical analysis, which can feed in to a future Outline Business Case for the redevelopment of the station.