The high-speed rail bridge in Colne Valley has won the 'engineering' category of the Royal Fine Art Commission Trust's Building Beauty Awards 2024.

HS2's 3.4km viaduct, which began construction in 2021 and was completed in September 2024, was recognised for its 'tour de force' of engineering and design.

The award was presented on November 21 by HRH The Duke of Gloucester.

Judges were impressed by the viaduct's ability to 'tread lightly', skimming over water despite its scale.

They described it as a 'breathtaking composition', with its drama enhanced by the curving form as it crosses the lakes.

The viaduct, which is the UK's longest rail viaduct, was built near Denham on London's north-western edge by Align JV, a joint venture between Bouygues Travaux Publics, Sir Robert McAlpine, and VolkerFitzpatrick.

It was designed to carry 320km/h trains across land and water.

The construction involved the use of 1,000 giant concrete pre-cast segments, each uniquely shaped to achieve the viaduct's curve and the varying lengths of its 57 arch spans.

Collecting the award on behalf of HS2 Ltd, civil engineering project director, David Emms said: "I am delighted to receive the Fine Art Commission Trust’s Building Beauty 'engineering’ award on behalf of HS2 Ltd and the dedicated team of thousands who have demonstrated their commitment and professionalism day in, day out – whatever the weather.

"From the earliest days of planning the high-speed line’s route through the Colne Valley, we set out to deliver a viaduct that met our Design Vision’s three guiding principles: that it works for all people to benefit and enjoy; its design has a sense of place; and stands the test of time.

"I believe it meets these aims, so it is extremely gratifying to see the Colne Valley viaduct achieve such prestigious recognition."

Align project director, Loïc Menard, added: "We are delighted to win the engineering award for the design and construction of the viaduct, which has been a huge technical challenge for everyone involved.

"Once the stunning design was finalised, the challenge was to get it built, and huge credit should go to all the different teams involved within Align, working with our numerous supply chain partners.

"This is an award for everyone on the project, building what I have no doubt will be the most iconic feature of HS2."

The Colne Valley viaduct’s construction will next move into the rail systems installation phase as it progresses towards becoming an operational part of the new high-speed railway between 2029 and 2033.