HS2’s Old Oak Common super-hub station has been awarded an exceptional rating in the Building Research Establishment’s Environmental Assessment Method (BREEAM) evaluation
The Old Oak Common Road station is set to become the largest newly constructed station in the UK. Only 1% of new structures worldwide achieve an outstanding rating, including HS2’s Birmingham Interchange Station.
The super-hub station was approved by the former secretary of state for transport, Grant Shapps, in June 2021. Since then, a team of 1,900 people have worked on the project, with around 1,000 workers arriving at the site daily.
The station will serve as the 42nd stop on the Elizabeth Line. Platform construction is due to begin later this year.
Old Oak Common is in the 1% of the world’s most sustainable buildings
“From the design of our stations and structures for HS2 to the rolling stock and operation of Britain’s new high-speed railway, long-term sustainability is a prime consideration for HS2. The recognition of HS2’s Old Oak Common station being in the 1% of the world’s most sustainable buildings is something we are hugely proud of,” said Huw Edwards, project client for Old Oak Common, HS2 Ltd.
“The most effective way to cut transport carbon emissions in the UK and improve our air quality is to invest in rail, including HS2. HS2 will help the UK’s fight against climate change and the drive to reach net zero carbon emissions,” he continued.
How does the BREEAM assessment work?
The BREEAM assessment considers various factors based on how environmentally friendly the station will be during its operation. The project’s design and sustainability team received praise for their responsible construction, future care planning, cycling amenities, and waste management.
The rating acknowledges the station’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions and using minimal or no grid energy. The station’s design includes smart use of low and zero-carbon technologies, resulting in carbon-negative energy usage.
The station’s layout promotes energy efficiency, featuring an open design with an atrium for natural ventilation. It also incorporates sensors to adjust lighting based on occupancy and daylight, reducing the need for artificial lighting.
Old Oak Common station has a range of innovative ‘green’ features
The Old Oak Common station design prioritises eco-friendly travel to and from the super-hub. It included EV charging in 16% of parking spaces—well above the 3% BREEAM standard.
The design also received recognition for its climate change adaptation. The station thermal modelling ensures the station won’t overheat due to potential climate impacts. All urinal and WC flushing needs will be facilitated by rainwater harvesting.
“We’re delighted to see Old Oak Common station receive an ‘Outstanding’ BREEAM rating for its sustainability credentials. This is a testament to the collaborative partnership between HS2 and WSP to create solutions which contribute to a more sustainable built environment,” said Simon Regan, WSP project director.
“Our railways have the unique ability to both decarbonise the transport network and drive economic and social prosperity across the country, with stations such as Old Oak Common being the access point to the opportunities this provides,” he concluded.
