Newly released videos show the next important step in the £600 million redevelopment of New Street station as the roof is clad with the same material used in a Beijing Olympic venue.

Called ethylene tetrafluoroethylene or ETFE, the material will allow for daylight to illuminate the station concourse and atrium for the first time in its history.

ETFE is also used on the Eden Project in Cornwall, the outside of Bayern Munich's Allianz Arena and the Beijing National Aquatics Centre.

Video Loading

The team working on the new station and Grand Central retail development have secured the material over the first sections of the steelwork which will form the roof over the atrium below.

The translucent material is strong, durable, has a high corrosion resistance, is self-cleaning and recyclable. It is also much lighter than glass.

Video Loading

Network Rail project director Chris Montgomery said: "The first pieces of cladding being attached to the atrium roof is a significant milestone in the building of the new station and Grand Central development.

"The specially designed sheets will be fitted to the structure over the next few months and will become an instantly recognisable part of the Birmingham skyline.

"Once the structure is completely waterproofed, we will be able to start the demolition of the floors beneath it to create the impressive atrium which will allow natural light to fill the station concourse for the first time."

The Birmingham Post has launched a free app for iPad and iPhone. Download it here.