The Building Research Establishment (BRE) has given its prestigious seal of approval to Birmingham New Street station.

Extensive efforts to make the large transport hub more environmentally friendly were recognised by BRE, which was impressed at the number of sustainable projects that had been implemented in recent years.

A new building opened on platform one of the station in 2012 and came fitted with solar panels, an energy monitoring system, an eco-friendly heating and cooling system and efficient lighting. 

Not only will this save the taxpayer thousands of pounds per year, but its installation also created a number of jobs for the local economy and cut the city council's carbon footprint.

Azhar Quaiyoom, Network Rail project manager, said: "The team behind the New Street station redevelopment are committed to reducing our impact on the environment and creating a sustainable station for the future so it's a proud day for the project team."