Opening dates for Birmingham New Street and Grand Central confirmed

John Lewis Credit: Network Rail

The long-awaited opening dates for Birmingham New Street station and Grand Central have been confirmed, after six years of building work.

New Street station, with its stunning atrium and huge concourse, will open its doors on Sunday 20 September.

Grand Central, the shopping complex built above the station, complete with John Lewis store and more than 60 other retailers, will open its doors on Thursday 24 September.

The Transport Secretary, Patrick McLoughlin, said:

The new station provides natural light on to the new concourse, improved platform access, stunning architecture and better access to all parts of the city centre.

Martin Frobisher, Route Managing Director for Network Rail, said:

Moor Street Station Credit: Network Rail

The Birmingham New Street station and Grand Central redevelopments will open up the city centre and reconnect the north and south side of the city for the first time since the arrival of the railway in the 19th century.

Grand Central development in numbers

  • Cost: £150m

  • Floor space: 450,000 sq ft

  • Will employ more than 1,000 people

  • Anticipated to attract more than 50 million visitors per year

  • Will boast more than 60 shops, restaurants and cafes, including one of the biggest John Lewis department stores in the UK

Sir Albert Bore, leader of Birmingham City Council said: