HS2 Ltd has unveiled the architects, designers and engineers who will draw up plans to deliver four major stations as part of the multi-billion pound infrastructure project.

The following firms will be awarded contracts to develop and refine details plans for each station;

• Birmingham Curzon Street – WSP UK Limited (working with Grimshaw Architects LLP)

• Birmingham Interchange – Ove Arup & Partners International Limited (working with Arup Associates and Wilkinson Eyre Architects Limited)

• Old Oak Common – WSP UK Limited (working with Wilkinson Eyre Architects Limited)

• London Euston - Ove Arup & Partners International Limited (working with Grimshaw Architects LLP)

The stations are due to open in 2026 and wider developments around the sites are expected to unlock opportunities for 30,000 new homes and 130,000 jobs.

The HS2 stations will be designed with input from local communities, using best practice principles from stations around the world, and guidelines and specifications endorsed by an independent panel of leading architects and designers.

HS2 Minister Nusrat Ghani said: "Appointing these leading creative firms ensures that passengers on our world-class railway will experience modern and accessible stations. I am confident that these firms will deliver these projects at value for money, with designs that are both innovative and in keeping with their surroundings."

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HS2 Ltd Chief Executive, Mark Thurston said: "Our new stations in London and Birmingham will be at the heart of the first phase of the project, increasing capacity, improving journeys and helping to unlock opportunities for tens of thousands of new jobs and homes around what will be four new landmark buildings.

"That's why I'm delighted to welcome these talented designers to the team, and we look forward to working with them to create station designs which showcase world-class architecture, ease of use and value for money that our passengers and communities expect and deserve."

An independent HS2 Design Panel has scrutinised HS2's guidelines and specifications for the stations, and will continue to play a key role in reviewing the detailed designs as they develop through 2018.

The winning firms will be tasked with delivering;

• People-centred design, which offers high-quality customer experience including shopping, business facilities, and opportunities for art and leisure

• Architecture which enables accessibility for all, including step-free access from street-to-seat which is simple and easy to navigate

• 'Timeless design' for future-proofing and flexibility so stations accommodate changes in technology and in the population

• Respecting and contributing to the physical and cultural legacy of the location – responding to the local built and natural environment, using local materials and ensuring local people identify with their station and have pride in it

Chair of the HS2 Design Panel, Sadie Morgan from DrMM architects, said: "We welcome the appointment of these world class designers and look forward to working with them and HS2 to help deliver iconic stations which set new standards in design and ease of use, and provide a legacy of great architecture of which Britain can be truly proud."

(LM)