HS2’s bid to protect wildlife, nature and countryside views with innovative ‘green bridges’ has moved along again, as the first images of the biggest bridge yet are released.
A total of 16 green bridges are being built as part of the HS2 project to uphold the lives of birds, mammals and insects.
In conjunction with five ‘green tunnels’, 33 square kilometres of wildlife habitat will be connected.
The largest of the bridges, a 99m-wide and 1.5 mile-long structure crossing one of the railway’s longest and deepest cuttings, will have hedgerows and vegetation included, while also carrying a footpath and bridleway.
The structure will be supported by 36 steel beams with pre-cast concrete slabs forming the deck.
HS2 says it cut the structure’s carbon footprint by 42% during its design phase, by removing 102 deep piles and choosing shallow foundations instead.
The excavation of the cutting as well as foundation work for the bridge is underway. The assembly of the steelwork is scheduled for later this year.
Senior project manager at HS2, Elizabeth Longinotti, said: “Green bridges are still rare in the UK and just one example of how HS2 is leading the way in terms of innovation and environmental protection.
“The bridge at Turweston will help keep communities connected, while supporting wildlife and biodiversity on either side of the railway.”
While HS2 will deliver faster and more reliable journeys, it is also important to deliver on environmental commitments hence why Turweston’s green bridge is so crucial, added Elizabeth.
Image credit: HS2 Ltd
