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Transport and Logistics Network

Key decision on giant HS2 viaduct coming this week

A major decision that would give HS2 the green light to build a giant viaduct through a leafy area of Solihull[1] is coming this week. The Balsall Common viaduct has been the subject of much scrutiny in the borough over the last 12 months, with permission expected to be given to HS2 to begin works.

The 425 metre-long structure will bridge a gap over floodplain land to the northeast of Berkswell[2] railway station. Once finished, it will connect high-speed strains travelling from the south through the Interchange station and onto Curzon Street in central Birmingham[3].

Since the plans were revealed over a year ago, the viaduct has drawn much attention, particularly from residents who will be living on its doorstep. Neighbours told the LDRS[4] in August of the ‘pure destruction’[5] their area has already faced, with others believing the ‘procession of concrete V-signs’[6] would be an offence to the local environment.

Indicative images show what the structure could look like in ten years’ time, sitting roughly 10 metres above the ground. HS2[8] claims barriers around the edge of the track will help to absorb noise made by the train as it passes over Truggist Lane, Bayleys Brook, Heart of England Way Walk, and various grasslands and wetlands.

After several rounds of public consultation, town planners have recommended the viaduct for approval. The powerful High Speed Rail Act 2017 has essentially already granted planning permission for Phase One of the project, but approval for certain design and construction matters must still be given by the local authority.

HS2 says the barriers at the side of the track will mitigate noise issues causing by passing trains
HS2 says the barriers at the side of the track will mitigate noise issues causing by passing trains

A report from Solihull Council[9] says: “Noise barriers have been optimised by reducing their height where equivalent performance in accordance with U&As can be demonstrated. These improvements have assisted in reducing the overall bulk and mass of the structure.

“Officers are satisfied that no other modifications are needed to the new buildings and other construction works that are necessary, to preserve the local environment or 55 local amenities, reduce impacts on road safety or the free flow of traffic or to preserve sites of historic or archaeological interest or nature conservation importance.”

Land where the viaduct will eventually pass through has already been flattened
Land where the viaduct will eventually pass through has already been flattened

Earlier this year in May, the Government overruled a decision[10] made by Solihull Council that sought to block HS2 lorries from using the narrow roads of Kelsey Lane and Waste Lane. HS2 contractor Balfour Beatty Vinci (BBV) made the request, claiming there was “no reasonable alternative” route available to facilitate the work.

The council’s planning committee will meet Wednesday, July 12, to discuss the matter in detail.

References

  1. ^ Solihull (www.birminghammail.co.uk)
  2. ^ Berkswell (www.birminghammail.co.uk)
  3. ^ Birmingham (www.birminghammail.co.uk)
  4. ^ LDRS (www.birminghammail.co.uk)
  5. ^ ‘pure destruction’ (www.birminghammail.co.uk)
  6. ^ ‘procession of concrete V-signs’ (www.birminghammail.co.uk)
  7. ^ Balsall Common HS2 lorry dispute explained – why Solihull Council has been overruled (www.birminghammail.co.uk)
  8. ^ HS2 (www.birminghammail.co.uk)
  9. ^ Solihull Council (www.birminghammail.co.uk)
  10. ^ the Government overruled a decision (www.birminghammail.co.uk)

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