HS2 announce shortlist to create and run people mover at Solihull Interchange station

HS2 have released the shortlist of the companies who will create and maintain the Automated People Mover (APM) at the Interchange station in Solihull.

The contracts will require the winning bidder to work with HS2 Ltd to deliver the and maintain the APM and its cable system operation for 25-year years.

Doppelmayr Cable Car UK Limited and POMA S.A.S will be invited to tender.

HS2 say the APM will initially be able to accommodate a minimum of 2,100 people per hour in each direction around it four stops at the Interchange station, the National Exhibition Centre (NEC), Birmingham International station, and Birmingham Airport.

The high speed rail company say this will increase to 3,900 passengers.

Andrew Cubitt, HS2’s procurement and supply chain director said: “We’re delighted to announce the shortlisted bidders, which takes us a step closer to delivering this vital connectivity boost to the HS2 network.

“This clean, green, transport solution will prove invaluable to the millions of people that will use it for onward business and leisure travel, or to access the excellent variety of events and entertainment on offer at the NEC and Resorts World.”

HS2 say as the route traverses the M42 and West Coast Main Line, the People Mover will be built on a viaduct to minimise impacts to the existing major road and rail network.

The Interchange Station is at the centre of the plans for the £3.2billionn Arden Cross mixed-use commercial and residential destination which will support up to 27,000 jobs and deliver up to 3,000 homes and commercial space.