Northamptonshire: New images of HS2's biggest 'green bridge' revealed

The green bridge near Turweston will be one of 16 along the HS2 route

New images of the HS2 line's largest "green bridge" have been revealed.

The 99m-wide (325ft) bridge will take a road over the new railway line near Turweston in south Northamptonshire.

It will also feature a footpath and bridleway, as well as new hedgerows and vegetation to create a space for wildlife on the outskirts of Brackley.

A total of 16 green bridges will be built along the new £100bn line between London and Birmingham which is planned to open between 2029 and 2033.

Five green tunnels are also being built along the route, including the 1.7-mile (2.7km) Greatworth Tunnel, also in south Northamptonshire.

'Supporting wildlife'

HS2 Ltd said that green bridges were an "increasingly common sight above new railways and motorways on the continent" and could help protect birds, mammals and insects.

The new bridge near Turweston will be supported by thirty-six steel steams, with pre-cast concrete slabs forming the deck.

2,700 cubic metres of earth will then be landscaped over the top, with the hedgerows, shrubs and other vegetation planted last.

The bridge will take local traffic over a stretch of the new railway near Brackley

Elizabeth Longinotti, HS2 Ltd's senior project manager, said: "Green bridges are still rare in the UK and just one example of how HS2 is leading the way in terms of innovation and environmental protection.

"The bridge at Turweston will help keep communities connected, while supporting wildlife and biodiversity on either side of the railway."

Tony Wehby, from contractor EKFB, said: "The earthworks programme between Turweston and Greatworth includes some of the largest cuttings on the HS2 project.

"This well-thought-out overbridge is designed to connect both sides of the cutting and is still in keeping with its environment - boasting a landscaped area to blend into its surroundings."

Work on the foundations of the new bridge at Turweston is already under way