HS2 has completed a 749-metre realignment of the River Cole near Coleshill, the largest natural river enhancement undertaken on the high-speed rail project.

The re-naturalisation scheme has introduced new meandering bends and improved riverbank habitats to boost biodiversity, forming part of HS2’s Green Corridor initiative to create better-connected, climate-resilient green spaces along the route.

The work was required to enable construction of the Birmingham Spur of the Delta Junction, one of the most complex sections of the HS2 network, and to accommodate two new viaducts and a series of embankments.

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Designed by the Mott MacDonald SYSTRA Design Joint Venture and delivered by Balfour Beatty VINCI, the project retained and reused natural river gravels to form the riverbed, reducing carbon emissions while enhancing conditions for aquatic species. Additional features such as ponds, wet grasslands, pasture areas, and native planting aim to support and attract a wide variety of wildlife.

Hydraulic modelling ensured the realignment posed no increased flood risk, with the scheme incorporating new flood storage areas and relief culverts. The design also integrates public pathways, observation areas, grassed embankments and Japanese-style stepping stones, drawing inspiration from the site’s historical role as an Edwardian boating lake.

The River Cole viaducts, which will span the newly aligned watercourse, are scheduled for completion later this year.