VolkerFitzpatrick has been appointed as the contractor to design and build the new £56m University Station in Birmingham.

University Station in Birmingham has seen a 700% increase in passenger numbers since it was opened in 1978.

The upgrade will see VolkerFitzpatrick complete design and building work to provide a gateway to the Edgbaston Campus and hospital to support regeneration in the area, and support the 2022 Commonwealth Games, which are to be held in Birmingham.

The new station will have wider platforms, lifts, ticket office and a retail unit with a direct link to the University of Birmingham campus via a canal bridge.

The current station building will be kept as a passenger exit.

Mayor of the West Midlands Andy Street said: “This station is used by thousands of people every day and is a key gateway for the city and region. We are therefore looking forward to working with VolkerFitzpatrick to turn our plans for University into a reality when construction begins next year.

“This is just one part of our wider investment in rail which includes the reopening of new lines in Birmingham and the Black Country, station upgrades and the introduction of new rolling stock on some of our busier lines.”

Director of estates for the University of Birmingham, Trevor Payne said: “The new University station is going to be a crucial part of our infrastructure for the next generation, providing us with a facility that is fit for the 21st Century. We are looking forward to working with VolkerFitzpatrick on this exciting project.”

Mike Evans, VolkerFitzpatrick operations director, said: “Over the last forty years this station has seen a dramatic increase in passenger numbers, which is still expected to rise in the coming years.

“Our design aim is to ensure the new station can continue to manage an increase in current capacity, but also create a vibrant, positive impression for those visiting Birmingham, and those using the station on a daily basis, helping to provide the local community with a faster, safer and more efficient mode of transport for the region.”

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