In The News: 24th April

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The first of the HS2 stations has been given planning permission – after the applications for the Curzon Street station and surrounding landscaping were approved by Birmingham City Council.

The new HS2 station will be net zero carbon in operation and will include capturing rainwater and sustainable power generation with over 2,800m2 of solar panels located on platform canopies.

Procurement for the company to construct the station has already started, with Invitation to Tender set to be launched in the summer.

The Guardian is reporting that train operators are making plans to restore about 80% of services from next month, should the government decide to partially lift lockdown measures in May.

The article reports that passenger numbers on trains are about 5% of normal levels, with only key workers supposed to travel.

Rail unions have said they will tell members to stop work unless the contingency plans address safety concerns.

The Department for Transport said any changes to service levels will be clearly communicated, subject to Public Health England guidance and discussed with industry and unions.

Didcot Railway Centre and Swindon Panel Society are proud to be helping Network Rail during this Coronavirus period.

The two heritage charities made their facilities available to enable Network Rail to prepare for train service delivery in the event of a shortage of regular signallers due to Coronavirus or the measures to prevent its spread.

Finally, and railway landmarks have been lit blue in support of the key workers.

Among those turning blue included the Britannia Bridge and Bristol Temple Mead station to say thank you to NHS staff and other key workers.

Photo credit: HS2 Ltd

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