HS2 begins search for station designs and development partner

HS2 Ltd has launched its search for station designs.

The winning bidder will work with the company to develop plans for stations at Birmingham Curzon Street, Birmingham Interchange and Old Oak Common. They will also work on the expansion at London Euston. The stations are on Phase 1 of HS2, which is due to open in 2026 having been granted Royal Assent on February 23.

A separate contest was launched on April 7, looking for a Master Development Partner which will advise on and then take forward development opportunities for new homes, offices and retail space above the revamped Euston station. The winner will not only work with HS2 Ltd, but also Network Rail, the station design contractor and local authorities. HS2 Ltd said that up to 21 hectares of development space could be available.

Bidders for both contracts are expected to be shortlisted in the summer, with contracts signed early next year. Station design work will be split into four packages.

HS2 Commercial Director Beth West said: “We’re looking for the brightest and the best from across the industry to help us deliver one of the most tangible legacies of the HS2 project - three brand new stations and a major expansion of London Euston.”

Tom Venner, HS2 Ltd’s Commercial Development Director, said: “Euston has been the gateway to the nation and the nation’s capital for over a century. HS2 provides the opportunity for it to continue that role into the next century - and for the local community to be proud of that role.

“Together with our development partner, we aim to redevelop Euston in a way that will make it not just the nation’s’ hub, but London’s as well - the heartbeat of both the nation and the capital, fit for the 21st century and beyond.”

David Biggs, Managing Director, Network Rail Property said he hoped that Euston would replicate the success of the redevelopment of nearby King’s Cross and St Pancras.