HS2's historic station repairs set for approval

Plans by HS2 to carry out "essential" works at the old Curzon Street Station are set to be given the green light.

The high speed rail developer has submitted proposals to carry out repairs at the historic building near the new HS2 Birmingham city centre terminus.

The revised design of the new station, which is set to become a key destination on the divisive HS2 line, was approved last year.

Opened in 1838, the station was the first direct railway line linking Birmingham to London and has been described as one of the world's oldest surviving pieces of monumental railway architecture.

It would include various external remedial repairs, roof renewal and other internal works.

Ahead of a planning meeting on 22 January, a recently-published council report said the proposals have been recommended for approval

"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 said.

"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."

The report went on to acknowledge that the proposed 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 public benefits of conserving and restoring this landmark building significantly outweigh the limited harm identified," it added.

This news was gathered by the Local Democracy Reporting Service which covers councils and other public service organisations.

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