Design of the Colne Valley Viaduct, a 3.4km-long HSR Viaduct in a Highly Sensitive Area

The article describes the process followed to develop the Specimen Design of the Colne Valley Viaduct (CVV), a circa 3,4km-long structure carrying the high-speed rail (HSR) line connecting the British cities of London and Birmingham (HS2 Phase 1). This viaduct, due to its scale and the sensitivity of the site being crossed (the first large green area to the west of London) will be the most important and delicate bridge in the whole route. The design was developed following a continuous stakeholder engagement process, achieving exceptionally strong support. It does responds to the scale and visual character of the different areas of the valley (watercourses, lakes, meadows, woods, and villages), to the user experience along and below the structure, and to the environmental sensitivity of the location, becoming a fitting addition to the landscape and a beacon through its elegance.