THE huge HS2 rail viaduct across the Colne Valley last night (21) won the engineering category of the Fine Art Commission Trust’s annual Building Beauty awards.

The honour, presented by the Duke of Gloucester, recognises what judges described as an engineering and design tour de force that, despite its scale, treads lightly, skimming over the water.

They added: “The result is a breathtaking composition, its drama enhanced by its curving form as it crosses the lake.”

Four members of the HS2 delivery team, its main civil engineering contractor, Align, and viaduct architects Grimshaw accepted the award on behalf of the project team.

Construction of HS2’s – and the UK’s – longest rail viaduct (pictured) began near Denham in 2021. It spans 3.4km.

In September, the last of 1,000 giant concrete pre-cast segments was fitted into place.

Weighing up to 140 tons and made on site, each one is uniquely shaped to achieve the viaduct’s curve and the varying lengths of its 57-arch span across two lakes.

More than 30,000 people are working on its construction.

Building Beauty competition judges noted: "For such a massive object it treads lightly and moves delicately. Even the expansion joints are elegant, and the decking is poised on bearings.

“The concrete is varied in form and treatment, with smooth surfaces set off by gentle corrugation. The acoustic wings attached to the sides of the bridge are, appropriately, light and airy."