A ‘BREAKTHROUGH’ agreement has been reached to build in key utility infrastructure near the HS2 interchange station in Solihull, ensuring future development and associated jobs can be delivered ahead of the expected start of high-speed rail services between 2029 and 2033.
A large under-track construction will be built underneath the HS2 line at Arden Cross, the development site which will be home to the interchange station.
As development at the mixed-use site takes shape, the under-track construction will be used to carry key utilities such as electricity,
water, gas and telecommunications to new business and residential users.
The agreement, which has been negotiated by Solihull Council’s Urban Growth Company, will see HS2 Ltd design and construct the conduit, with funding provided by Solihull Council.
The cost of the work will be repaid by the landowners, Arden Cross Ltd, once completed and handed over.
It is the first time that such a contract has been agreed between HS2 Ltd and local partners.
Councillor Courts, Leader of Solihull Council said: “The agreement is all about planting the seeds for our continued and future prosperity.
“Ensuring we have the correct utilities infrastructure in place to future proof this strategically important site will be key to unlocking its huge potential.
“Arden Cross could provide up to 3,000 new homes for the borough and up to 6m sq ft of new commercial development. It also paves the way towards realising an ambition, working with University Hospitals Birmingham Trust, to bring a world class Health and Innovation Campus to Solihull, ensuring we lead the way in key areas of medical research and innovation.
“This is a significant step to making our UK Central Hub vision a reality and is a testament to what close partnership working can achieve. We will continue to work with UGC and other partners to maximise the economic benefit of HS2 coming to Solihull.”
