Solihull councillor expresses worry over HS2 station’s reduced parking. Limited parking spaces a potential issue.
The council had approved the HS2 Interchange Station plan. It will sit on 150 hectares of land, surrounded by the M42, A45, and A452 roads.
HS2’s Marcus King gave councillors an update, calling the station well-connected and among the best in the UK. London Euston will be 38 minutes away via HS2 from the station. A people mover will connect key places like Birmingham Airport and Birmingham International station.
The HS2 northern leg got cancelled before, but the London to Birmingham phase still goes on, and it should open between 2029 and 2033.
King said the station design changed following discussions with key groups. The change involved reducing parking by roughly 3,000 spaces, which allows Arden Cross to grow. King stated that they will engage with stakeholders and look for ways to use less land, thereby reducing high-value land usage.
Councillor Rolf wanted more details. King clarified that spaces went from 7,000 to 4,500, and HS2 is now talking with partners about parking. Rolf thinks reducing parking is a problem, stating that 7,000 spaces seemed necessary, and now there are fewer spaces available.
King responded to Rolf’s worry, mentioning that since the line once went to Manchester, changes to trains may impact the need for parking.
Councillor Holt talked about building pressures. Supporting the new plan because development helps, he still mentioned there could be issues with people struggling to find parking. Holt said to expect potential funding for enhanced parking, including a multi-story car park design, emphasizing that adequate parking must be solved so people can make the most of this project.
Councillor Burrow questioned public transport plans, asking how people will reach the station. He was informed that firm public transport plans do not yet exist. Burrow thinks public transport is vital and that 4,500 spaces did not seem like much. Overall, members expressed worry about the parking situation.
Councillor Wilson said 4,000 cars sound like a lot. He wants sustainable public transport explored to prevent cars clogging roads.
The advisory group discussed this matter on January 30 at the Civic Suite location.