Government gives go-ahead to Birmingham Gateway

Passengers across the West Midlands and UK are set to benefit from an even bigger and better New Street Gateway after the Government's decision to back plans to transform Birmingham New Street station with almost £400m of funding.

The scheme, developed by Birmingham City Council, Network Rail, Advantage West Midlands and Centro-WMPTA, will see the current 1960s built station transformed into a bright, modern 21st Century transport hub for the entire region. It will also regenerate large parts of Birmingham city centre and create thousands of jobs.

Iain Coucher, Chief Executive, Network Rail said: "Network Rail is delighted the Government has given the green light to create a station fit for the passengers of Birmingham, the West Midlands and beyond. This is a much needed scheme and is among a raft of projects that Network Rail is looking to take forward to expand and develop Britain's rail network in the years ahead."

Cllr Mike Whitby, chair of the New Street Gateway steering group added: "The West Midlands spoke with one voice and we thank people for backing this important bid for funding. With the support of business, local politicians, and most importantly, the general public, the Government has responded to our call for a better station for Birmingham.

"This is not an overnight job. However, from 2011 passengers and the general public will enjoy the first benefits of this transformation."

Mick Laverty, Chief Executive Designate at Advantage West Midlands, said: "The New Street Gateway scheme will be a catalyst for major regeneration. Furthermore, the future prosperity of the West Midlands economy will be helped enormously by Birmingham having a station which creates the right first impression."

Gary Clarke, Chairman of Centro-WMPTA said: "Passengers across the region have been calling for something to be done about Birmingham New Street and that's why we made it a priority.

"Today's announcement is great news and we are proud to play our part in creating a Gateway to the Midlands that passengers can be proud of."

The project to rebuild New Street will take place in two phases, keeping the station open for passengers and train services throughout construction. The first phase, at the north end of the station will see a part of the new concourse opening in 2011. The second phase is due to be completed by 2013.