Contractors appointed for £8m Digbeth Coach Station transformation

Jul 18 2008 By Patrice John

A BIRMINGHAM-based firm has been awarded the contract to give Digbeth Coach Station a multi-million pound facelift.

Ashford Construction Plc will take on the £8.6 million redevelopment of the station which forms part of an overal £15 million investment by National Express.

The new station, which promises to be one of the main commuter gates into the city, is set to open by the end of 2009.

National Express’ Stuart Parker said: “Ashford Construction Plc is a Birmingham-based contractor with more than 35 years experience in the Midlands construction market where it has developed strong links in all sectors.

“The firm demonstrated in the competitive tendering process its commitment to the project and its shared vision for the future of Digbeth Coach Station.

“The appointment of Ashford Construction is further demonstration of National Express’ commitment to support Birmingham’s businesses and community.”

National Express also wants the project to have a low environmental impact and is aiming for an excellent BREEAM rating which is an assessment method for green initiatives.

An Ashford Construction spokesman said: “We are delighted to have been given the opportunity to be involved in the exciting redevelopment of this famous Birmingham landmark.

“We will give the project the necessary commitment, effort and expertise to deliver a finished product which everyone can be proud of,” he said.

The coach station will serve as a key travel interchange for the UK and will form part of the ongoing regeneration of Birmingham’s Digbeth area. While the coach station is undergoing redevelopement, coach services are continuing to operate as normal from National Express’ temporary site on Oxford Street, which is known as Birmingham Central.