RE-DRAWN plans of the River Blythe Viaduct for the HS2 line are set to go on display on Tuesday (December 5).
The 475 metre low-lying structure is set to be located just south of the new HS2 Interchange Station as it crosses the River Blythe, the floodplain and Meriden Road near Hampton in Arden.
HS2 say the latest design has taken inspiration from feedback from the local community during previous engagement activities , particularly regarding tree planting and protecting the local environment.
It added the new design aims to achieve better connectivity between existing areas of species-rich meadow with a new wetland link introduced from east to west under the viaduct, connecting the existing wildlife habitat.
HS2 say the landscape proposals enhance habitat and biodiversity connectivity alongside the viaduct, creating wooded embankments at either end of the structure so that trains emerge onto the viaduct from a woodland canopy.
Christoph Brintrup, HS2’s head of landscape said: “It’s important that we listen to local communities as we finalise the design for these key HS2 structures. We’re pleased that our latest design for the River Blythe Viaduct is responsive to its surrounding context by focusing on the conservation, enhancement and restoration of the rural landscape.
“Our plans will sensitively integrate the viaduct into the wetland and provide additional ecological value by reinforcing the riverside habitat and conserving the historical character of the area.”
HS2 say in order to minimise the impact on the local road network and nearby residents during the construction phase, an alternative route will be built to access the site directly from the A425, by-passing Meriden Road.
The latest plans will be on display to the public at Fentham Hall in Hampton in Arden between 2pm and 7pm
There will be representatives from HS2 Ltd and their contractor Balfour Beatty VINCI will be on hand to provide more details and answer questions.
To register and interest visit the HS2 events page here.
