Avanti West Coast has marked the 50th anniversary of Birmingham International station, celebrating half a century since it first opened.
Built to serve Birmingham Airport and the National Exhibition Centre (NEC), the station opened its doors on 26 January 1976. Over the last five decades, it has become a commuter hub for residents living in Solihull, Coleshill, and surrounding areas.
To mark the occasion, representatives from the West Midlands Combined Authority, Birmingham Airport, Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council, and the NEC, joined Avanti West Coast, which manages the station.
A specially made birthday cake was presented, and guests shared their memories from the last 50 years.
The station was also dressed in commemorative bunting and messages showing appreciation to passengers were displayed on screens.
Birmingham International originally shared its name with the nearby airport and was designed by architect Ray Moorcroft, who became the Chief Architect for British Rail from 1977. He also designed Wolverhampton and Northampton station buildings prior to their revamps, as well as being involved in London Euston’s redevelopment in the 1960s.
Neil Warner, Avanti West Coast deputy team leader, is the longest-serving employee at the station – clocking up nearly 30 years’ service – and regards it as a place that “feels like home”.
“It is quite special to me because it’s the place where I’ve worked nearly all my life. There’s a great team here and there’s been some unique characters over the years, and we’ve all got on well together”, said Neil.
He added: “With the NEC on our doorstep, I’ve been fortunate to meet a lot of famous people, including Paul O’Grady and Prince William.”
Birmingham International is served by Avanti West Coast’s Pendolino and Evero trains, alongside services from West Midlands Trains, CrossCountry, Transport for Wales, and as of this month, Caledonian Sleeper.
More than 300 trains call at the station each day, with around five million people travelling to or from Birmingham International every year.
Jodie Watson, Avanti West Coast station manager at Birmingham International, said: “For half a century Birmingham International has grown to be an integral transport hub for the West Midlands, creating a gateway for holiday and concert goers, while also connecting local people with major towns and cities.
“We’re pleased to celebrate this landmark anniversary with those who have been a part of its journey. I’m proud of the great team here who provide a warm welcome to the millions of people that travel to and from the station each year.”
Image credit: Avanti West Coast
