Delivering an important keynote at TransCityRail Midlands 2026, John Bettles took a look into the future of high-speed rail.
In his role as Midlands Station director at HS2, John focused in on the ambitious plans for the new stations at Curzon Street and Interchange, set to revolutionise transport connectivity in the West Midlands.
John took delegates on a journey through the history of Curzon Street, once the main terminus for the Birmingham to London Railway. He shared fascinating anecdotes, including the discovery of a mummified cat during renovations, which added a quirky touch to the station's storied past. Curzon Street, while operational for only a brief period as a passenger station, has left a significant legacy, paving the way for the modern developments we see today.
Fast forwarding to the present, John outlined the current status of the High Speed 2 project. He explained the reset programme led by new CEO Mark Wild, which aims to streamline operations and ensure a successful build phase. With government backing, HS2 is set to inject £25 billion into the railway, promising substantial investment and growth for the region.
Delegates learnt about the exciting progress at Curzon Street, where construction is well underway. John highlights the critical milestones achieved, including the completion of tunnelling and the erection of columns on-site. The ambitious timeline aims for completion between 2036 and 2039, with further phases extending into the early 2040s.
The keynote also touched on the Interchange station, which is slightly behind schedule but progressing well. John discussed the importance of refining designs to enhance user experience and operational efficiency, including an automated people mover that will connect passengers to key locations like the NEC and the airport.
The overarching theme of John’s speech was the drive for urban growth and regeneration in the West Midlands. John emphasised the importance of integrating the railway with local development, creating a vibrant environment that fosters economic growth before the railway even arrives.
Overall John gave attendees a wealth of insight into how HS2 is set to reshape the landscape of the West Midlands, making it a pivotal moment in British rail history.
