The designers of a viaduct project in Birmingham, England, have incorporated community views into plans, resulting in a wider walkway and enhanced lighting.
Commissioned by HS2, Saltley Viaduct, which replaces an older structure, will take a road over two railways, the Grand Union Canal and the River Rea.
Visualisation of the new Saltley Viaduct in the evening with enhanced lighting and a wider deck. Picture: HS2
When asked, residents wanted better lighting, and so the design includes LEDs under the handrail to minimise light pollution and to reduce the impact on wildlife, including bats. The present footway, which is shared with cyclists, measures just 2.5m. In response to community feedback, the new design will have a pathway that is 4m wide.
The design is a joint venture by Mott MacDonald and Systra with architects Weston Williamson + Partners working for Balfour Beatty VINCI.
