Network Rail has successfully concluded the final phase of a substantial £7.8 million investment dedicated to a year-long initiative to repair the concrete roof at Birmingham New Street station.
All 12 station platforms were intermittently closed throughout this comprehensive project to facilitate more than 500 essential repairs. Two adjacent platforms were systematically closed for four-week intervals, ensuring the seamless execution of the intricate restoration process.
Network Rail liaised closely with train operating companies to ensure minimal disruption throughout the work.
Commencing in early 2023, the project involved an initial assessment, followed by meticulous repairs to the concrete roof structure supporting the station concourse area above the platforms. The restoration was achieved by inserting 5,000 bolts into the concrete and incorporating 900 steel plates.
This initiative is part of a broader program of enhancements at New Street Station, ultimately designed to elevate the overall passenger experience. While some final touches are yet to be completed, it is important to note that these remaining tasks will have no impact on station services.
The successful completion of this ambitious project marks a significant milestone in ensuring the structural integrity of Birmingham New Street station and sets the stage for continued improvements benefiting commuters and visitors alike.
Federica Labanca, Principal Route Engineer for Network Rail, said “We are delighted to have reopened all of the platforms at Birmingham New Street after this major improvement work. This project is part of a wider programme to keep the iconic station running safely and reliably.
We appreciate that the temporary platform closures meant changes to train services for some passengers and I'd like to thank station users for their patience while this important work took place”.
I hope that the completion of this work will make the station a little less loathsome.