Planning application for huge new London HS2 ‘super-hub’ approved includes dedicated taxi facilities
The planning application for HS2’s west-London super hub, Old Oak Common, was approved by the Old Oak and Park Royal Development Corporation (OPDC) on 19 May.
The green light means that work can progress on building what will be the largest new railway station ever built in the UK.
The station will have 14 platforms, a mix of six high speed and eight conventional service platforms, with a 850m long station box, with a volume to fit 6,300 Routemaster buses.
When operational, the station will be used by up to an estimated 250,000 passengers each day and is set to become one of the busiest railway stations in the country. It will aim to provide seamless connectivity with conventional rail services through eight conventional train platforms, to be served by the Elizabeth Line (Crossrail), Heathrow Express and trains to Wales and the West of England.
The station design has a sufficiently sized concourse and platform space to accommodate passenger growth to 2041 and beyond, provision of a dedicated bus and taxi facility, dedicated drop-off and pickup areas, pedestrian and cycle links, and upgraded highway infrastructure comprising a new traffic signalised junction.
Matthew Botelle, HS2 Ltd’s Stations Director, said: “The planning approval for the Old Oak Common super-hub station is an important milestone in the delivery of Britain’s new world-class low carbon railway. Building a new railway station for the UK on this scale and size will be an incredible achievement for British engineering.
“HS2 is set to be a catalyst to transform this area of West London, making it one of the best connected development sites in the UK. We will continue to work with OPDC and other local partners to ensure that this opportunity is maximised.”
Liz Peace, Chair of OPDC, said: “The approval of HS2’s Old Oak Common Station design marks a significant milestone in the delivery of this nationally important project. The new station will unlock a huge regeneration opportunity, bringing billions of pounds of investment into the local community and the wider UK economy.
“Now, more so than ever, the delivery of new and affordable homes and jobs at Old Oak and Park Royal is needed to capitalise on the unrivalled connectivity that HS2 will bring. By working closely with key stakeholders and partners, including HS2, the local London Boroughs and Network Rail, while listening to and collaborating with local people, we can make sure these public benefits are realised.”
