Traditional Warwickshire ironstone cladding will be used for the piers supporting HS2’s Oxford Canal Viaduct after engaging with the local community
Three concrete spans will carry the railway 62.5m across the canal, towpath, and a country lane near the village of Wormleighton between Warwickshire and West Northants. Warwickshire ironstone cladding will be used to face the piers and abutments due to its hardwearing nature.
The viaduct has been designed to be as open as possible, which hopes to improve the environment for boaters and walkers. The design of the Oxford Canal Viaduct combines a imple overall form with a special focus on materials for the parts of the structure that are close to the canal and its visitors.
Improving connectivity between London, Birmingham and the North
HS2 hopes to improve rail links and transport between London, Birmingham and the North, which in turn will help to level up the economy, as well as provide a net zero alternative to travel.
The Oxford Canal Viaduct is one of 15 viaducts and bridges across the central section of the HS2 route, which is being designed by HS2’s main works contractor EKFB.
HS2 will transform railway journeys across the UK once complete
Commenting on the viaduct, HS2 Ltd’s Senior Project Manager, Paul Cooper, said: “The construction of the first canals revolutionised transportation and helped to build the country we live in today so it’s fitting that our contemporary design includes a nod back to those eighteenth-century pioneers.”
“Once complete, HS2 will transform journeys across the UK, help to boost the economy and support the UK’s transition to net zero. But it’s also important that key structures like the Oxford Canal Viaduct are sensitive to their location, which is why we were keen to involve the community in key decisions, like the design of the viaduct piers.”
Working alongside the local community to enhance the viaduct
EKFB’s interface and stakeholder director, Simon Matthews, added: “The Oxford Canal ‘You Said We Did’ community event is a prime example of how HS2, EKFB and its designers worked alongside the local community to further enhance the exterior appearance of the viaduct’s supporting piers and abutments.
“The local stone detail reflects the canal’s original architectural characteristics which enriches and remains in keeping with its surrounding area.
“EKFB is pleased with the outcome from the community event and thanks the community for its input and support.”
