Connecting people and places to the HS2 interchange station - The Solihull Observer

Connecting people and places to the HS2 interchange station

Solihull Editorial 6th Feb, 2022   0

PLANS for an ‘Automated People Mover’ (APM) linking the HS2 Interchange Station with the NEC, Birmingham International Station and Birmingham Airport, have been submitted to Solihull Council.

Since August 2020 HS2 has worked closely with the Urban Growth Company (UGC) in Solihull to include extra design elements which will support wider growth plans at the UK Central Hub.

This includes an option to modify the alignment of the APM as part of a potential major transformation of Birmingham International Station to create a new, integrated multi-modal transport exchange.

The realignment would also support the UGC’s plans to deliver new commercial development and public realm opportunities on adjacent land.




The option involves a slight change to the route of the APM, as it passes Birmingham International Station and connects into Birmingham Airport.

The plans will also integrate the APM stop with a revitalised public realm at Birmingham International Station, including additional planting and space for artwork to improve the passenger experience.


A proposed green wall with climbing plants will also enhance biodiversity, provide seasonal colour and contribute to better air quality.

As with the original alignment, a pedestrian footbridge would connect the APM stop with Birmingham International Station, allowing seamless connections between HS2 Interchange Station, Birmingham International Station, the NEC and Birmingham Airport.

Lisa Chaney, programme manager at the Urban Growth Company, added: “This realignment is subtle but critical because it allows for the future development of an adjacent area of land which is currently used for surface car parking.

“There is also the potential to deliver a new public plaza which will create an exciting sense of place and arrival. We’ve worked closely with HS2 to develop this proposal and it’s been a really good example of innovation through collaborative working and making sure that this national infrastructure delivers regional benefits.”

Once the proposal has been through the planning process, a decision will be taken at a later date by HS2, the UGC and the contractor appointed to build the APM as to which route will be constructed.

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