HS2 super-hub station recognised as outstanding for environmental designs

HS2’s new ‘super-hub’ station in West London, Old Oak Common, has been rated outstanding under the internationally recognised Building Research Establishment’s Environmental Assessment Method (BREEAM) assessment.

Currently under construction, Old Oak Common joins HS2’s Birmingham Interchange Station in achieving the outstanding rating - a level of performance met by only 1% of new build assets globally. 

The London designs have been uprated from a previous excellent rating.

The station design team, WSP, has pursued and met multiple areas of best practice in design and innovation throughout the completion of the detailed design phase.

Huw Edwards, project client for Old Oak Common, HS2, said: “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.

“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.”

The awarded credits which have raised the design and sustainability performance of the project even further have included responsible construction practices, aftercare planning, cyclist facilities, life cycle impact, exemplary waste management practices and the adaptation of the building to climate change.

The assessment is based on several factors including the environmental performance of the station when operational. 

The rating recognises the station will deliver net zero emissions and will require minimal or no grid supplied energy when in use. 

Low and zero carbon technologies have been intelligently incorporated into the design of the station through a combination of multiple systems providing a station that is carbon negative in terms of regulated energy.

BREEAM is an indicator for excellence in building design, construction and sustainability.

Further elements of the stations design reduce its operational reliance on energy, including an open plan layout with an atrium that allows for natural ventilation and occupancy and daylight sensors that reduce demand for artificial light.

The station is designed to accommodate sustainable travel to and from the super-hub. 

This includes exceptional cycling facilities, as well as EV charging facilities making up 16% of the parking facilities at the station – far higher than the 3% required by BREEAM standards.

Simon Regan, WSP project director for HS2 Old Oak Common, said he was “delighted” to receive the outstanding rating. 

“This is testament to the collaborative partnership between HS2 and WSP to create solutions which contribute to a more sustainable built environment,” he added.

“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.”