The New Street Gateway funding partners, Birmingham City Council, Network Rail, Advantage West Midlands and Centro today had a very positive meeting with Department for Transport officials and the new Minister for the West Midlands, Liam Byrne, as part of an on-going support for its detailed appraisal of the Gateway programme.

A good deal of work has already taken place to compare and contrast various options for upgrading New Street Station. Analysis shows that the New Street gateway offers the best solution for rail passengers and other local transport users, as well as supporting high levels of growth in the regional economy.

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Mike Whitby said: “I am greatly encouraged by the positive, frank and helpful discussions we have had today. All the partners are working flat out to ensure that we can progress the Gateway scheme as soon as possible.

“I have made New Street Station a top priority since 2004, and will continue to ensure that it gets the maximum support at all levels. I am now even more confident that we can deliver our plans for a 21st Century station that we can be proud of and which will play a vital part in our ambitious to get this deal – and get it done fast.”

Nick Paul, Chairman of Advantage West Midlands also commented: “The New Street Gateway Scheme is vital for the regional economy and is AWM’s top infrastructure priority. We are greatly encouraged by today’s meeting.”

The group have agreed to meet again in early September to review progress.

(JM/SP)