Revamp supporters are asked to visit the Renew Street website

An open letter from civic leaders backs the Birmingham Gateway campaign launched a fortnight ago.

They want people and businesses to show there is wide support for the plans via the Renew Street website.

Backers say the glass-roofed scheme is the best solution for the station, the city and for the region.

Birmingham City Council leader Mike Whitby said: "Birmingham Gateway will give not only us, but everyone who visits our great city, a world class travelling experience."

How the station curently looks to passengers

Network Rail route director Peter Strachan said: "By signing up to our campaign, the people and businesses of Birmingham can make a difference.

"We need the support of everyone if we are to realise our vision of a world class station capable of accommodating the growth of the railway for generations to come."

The West Midlands Passenger Transport Authority said redeveloping New Street Station was critical for passengers and business and also essential to the future of the West Midlands.

Birmingham Chamber of Commerce policy director Jerry Blackett said: "We need to send a very loud message to London that this is a top priority for the future of our economy."

The revamp scheme is designed to improve passenger access and deal with congestion, acting as a catalyst for regeneration and economic development in the region. But it will not allow for more trains to serve the station.