HS2 plans approved for listed station building

Proposals by HS2 to restore an old station building in central Birmingham have been approved, but the government has been urged to "get on with the high-speed railway".

A Birmingham City Council planning committee on Thursday considered plans for various repairs and works at the historic Curzon Street Station building, which is near the city's new HS2 terminus.

The revised design of the terminus, set to become a key destination on the controversial line, was approved last year.

Project managers now wish to make a feature of what has been described as among the world's oldest surviving pieces of monumental railway architecture. But there are no plans to bring the 1838 building back into use.

Proposals submitted by HS2 Ltd included various external remedial repairs, roof renewal and internal works.

A report, published ahead of Thursday's meeting, said: "The primary purpose of these proposed works is to safeguard the Old Curzon Street Station building while incorporating measures to improve sustainability and thermal efficiency.

"It is not the intention of this application to refurbish the building for re-occupation.

"The aim is to protect the structure, recognising the significance of the building and its interior, and to prevent further deterioration."

Several Birmingham councillors welcomed the plans, with Philip Davis describing it as a "really significant" building.

"It's good to see the resource being dedicated by HS2," he said.

Gareth Moore added: "It's a refreshing change to hear about a listed building having investment."

While the restoration plans were given the green light, Lee Marsham, chair of the planning committee, issued a message to the government beforehand.

"What I will say is that I think the government needs to get on with HS2 at the quickest pace it can, at the best value for taxpayers," he said.

"It's also good to hear rumours that there may now be a new line going from Birmingham to Manchester."

The report to councillors acknowledged the works could result in "some harm" to the Grade I listed building.

"However, these works are considered essential to safeguard the building's long-term sustainability," it said.

"Notwithstanding the fact that the scheme would result in a low level of 'less than substantial harm', the overarching aim of the proposal to conserve this significant and impressive building for the future is recognised."

The report added: "The public benefits of conserving and restoring this landmark building significantly outweigh the limited harm identified."

Follow BBC Birmingham on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X and Instagram.