The next step in the transformation of Birmingham New Street station was taken with the submission of the detailed planning application to Birmingham City Council.

Since outline consent was granted in 2007, the team has been working behind the scenes to further develop the plans, incorporating feedback from across the city so that the Gateway project provides the best solution for passengers, Birmingham and the region.

Jo Kaye, Route Director for Network Rail, said: "Birmingham is home to world class design so we have to deliver a station that is visionary and adds to this great architectural heritage. Our plans for New Street will further enhance the growing reputation of Birmingham and improve the travelling experience for the millions of passengers who use the station every year."

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The planning application follows a public exhibition held by Network Rail last month where people had the chance to provide their comments on the design. Over 2,000 people visited the exhibition and over 600 questionnaires were returned.

The response was overwhelmingly positive, with 91% of respondents agreeing that the design was an improvement on the current station.

Other key findings include:

• 90% ranked improving accessibility for disabled passengers and those with luggage or buggies as important or very important
• 86% of respondents ranked creating more entrances to the station as important or very important
• 86% also ranked as important or very important creating more space for people to wait for their train

The project is backed by Network Rail, Birmingham City Council, Advantage West Midlands, Centro and the Department for Transport.

(CD/BMcc)