05.05.17
HS2 submits plans to convert disused Curzon Street station entrance
HS2 has submitted planning permission to convert the disused Curzon Street station entrance building into a visitor space when the high-speed terminal comes into service.
The company plan to turn the Grade-1 listed entrance building, one of the oldest surviving train terminals in the country, into an exhibition space, café and offices for businesses working with HS2.
Plans also include alterations to the exterior of the station to provide new paving, landscaping, car parking and an “external drinking area”.
Waheed Nazir, corporate director of economy with Birmingham City Council, said: “The former Curzon Street station building is one of the oldest railway terminus buildings in the world and a monumental piece of architecture.
“Sitting in the heart of Birmingham Eastside, which will be home to HS2, this building symbolises an exciting future, as well as celebrating the city's important rail heritage.”
Nazir also stated that Birmingham City Council had been working closely with HS2 and Birmingham City University to consider measures to protect the building and ensure that it would still be around for another 180 years, and also mark the arrival of high-speed rail in the city.
“Depending on the outcome of the consultation process, the planning committee will make a decision on the application in July,” he added.
The building has been empty since 2006, although it has from time to time been used for temporary art exhibitions.
The historic station originally opened in 1838 and closed down for train services in 1966. HS2’s terminal will sit partly on the site of Curzon Street and is expected to bring major transformation and growth to the area.
(Image: c. Tony Hisgett)
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