Saltley Viaduct
Saltley Viaduct is located 3.2km (two miles) north-east of Birmingham City Centre. It will be an important crossing point, providing access to the city centre and the districts of Nechells and Alum Rock. The viaduct will cross the HS2 line as it travels into the new high-speed station at Birmingham Curzon Street.
Viaduct construction
Saltley Viaduct is located 3.2km (two miles) north-east of Birmingham City Centre. It will be an important crossing point, providing access to the city centre and the districts of Nechells and Alum Rock. The viaduct will cross the HS2 line as it The viaduct has received planning approval from Birmingham City Council. It will be constructed whilst the existing bridge is maintained, with the new superstructure fabricated on-site and then driven into its final position.
The pre-assembled steel deck segments will be produced away from the structure to make best use of the space, with the piers created first before the steel deck is transported to the site and lifted into position. This method of construction will reduce the time taken for the works.
Saltley Viaduct will be closed to traffic to allow the approach embankments to the new overbridge and utility diversions to be constructed and new highway alignment to be completed. Once construction is complete, traffic will be diverted on to the new structure. The remaining section of the existing bridge will then be demolished.
A pedestrian route will be provided during construction.
Viaduct design
Local community feedback has been incorporated into the latest designs for the viaduct.
Locals wanted to make sure there was enough room for both pedestrians and cyclists so HS2 designers have widened the pathway from 2.5 metres to 4 metres. The weathering steel panels will also be perforated, to add visual interest.
Over 75% of people said they wanted additional lighting to ensure the safety of pedestrians and cyclists at night, so HS2 has introduced an LED lighting system integrated into the wider walkway. Positioning the lighting system underneath the handrail also avoids light spill, making it more environmentally friendly for local wildlife, including bats that may forage below.
Slide 1 of 5: Saltley Viaduct aerial view over canal
Slide 2 of 5: Parapet along Saltley Viaduct pathway
Slide 3 of 5: Saltley Viaduct from canal
Slide 4 of 5: Saltley Viaduct pedestrian view at night
Slide 5 of 5: View of Saltley Viaduct from railway
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