19.01.18
HS2 releases concept images of new Colne Valley viaduct
HS2 Ltd has today released an initial concept of how it expects the Colne Valley viaduct to look once construction is complete.
The concept released today, which has been put out for communities to give their views on, will help inform development of the final design.
Developed by specialist architects Martin Knight with the Colne Valley Regional Park Panel and the HS2 Independent Design Panel, the concept is looking into a range of options for how the viaduct can be sensitively and aesthetically built in the Colne Valley.
It was developed around 14 key criteria set by HS2 Ltd, including whether the design fits the landscape, as well as how it maintains views and landscape ‘flow.’
“The construction of the Colne Valley HS2 viaduct will have a significant impact on the Colne Valley area,” said chair of the Colne Valley Regional Park panel, Jim Barclay.
“The Colne Valley Panel which is drawn from local stakeholders, is very pleased to have been consulted and through a series of workshops, Panel Members have been able to understand the design principles for the viaduct.
“The Colne Valley Regional Park Panel looks forward to further engagement with HS2 and Align over the actual viaduct design.”
The concept document also details information about innovative ideas for features, such as transparent noise-reduction barriers with vertical lines and creating a slimmer side profile of the viaduct.
Sadie Morgan, chair of the Independent Design Panel, said: “We are delighted that this imaginative and carefully-considered concept has been published, and can form the basis for wider discussions with the communities around the Colne Valley and all those who value and use the spaces and amenities within it.
“The Independent Design Panel will continue to work hard to ensure that the viaduct’s final design respects its location and communities, whilst being a shining example of great design that Britain can be proud of.”
And HS2 Ltd programme director, Mike Hickson, added: “The Colne Valley viaduct will be one of the longest viaducts in the UK, and one of HS2’s best-known structures.
“We have every confidence that our contractor, Align, will continue this collaborative approach and engagement, as they now develop their own scheme and then detailed design of this significant structure.”