HS2: master development partner chosen for Euston gateway

The company behind the 2012 Athletes’ Village and the new International Quarter has been chosen to lead on the planning and development of Euston as it becomes the capital’s gateway to HS2.

Multinational building firm Lendlease was this morning (February 23) confirmed as the project’s master development partner (MDP) by the Secretary of State for Transport and Network Rail.

According to the Government, the deal could unlock as many as 1,700 new homes and 19,000 jobs around the wider station site.

Lendlease will work with the Greater London Authority and London Borough of Camden as it develops a masterplan for the 133-acre station, bringing forward sustainable mixed-use development opportunities once construction is complete.

HS2 is expected to more than double the number of seats available at Euston during peak hours.

The project will also create new access routes along with public and green spaces across the wider station site.

HS2 Minister Nusrat Ghani welcomed the appointment, commenting: “Confirming Lendlease as our intended major partner is an exciting and important moment as we drive forward the regeneration of Euston.

“We are setting out a strong vision for creating new homes and jobs, stimulating economic growth and building a modern development that will match the ambition and scale of HS2.”

She added: “Crucially, as we build Britain’s future railway we will ensure that communities are at the heart of our plans and share the transformative economic benefits on offer.”

Mark Thurston, chief executive of HS2, said: “The arrival of HS2 gives us a unique opportunity to transform the wider Euston station site, opening up the station to the surrounding community with new streets and public realm as well as opportunities to unlock thousands of new jobs and homes, anchored around a common masterplan vision.

“It was great to see such a strong competition and I’m pleased to welcome Lendlease to the team.”

He continued: “Their experience of delivering some of the world’s most challenging transport and development projects will be vital as we move forward with this exciting new phase in the story of Euston station.”