The design of a footbridge planned to be built over the HS2 rail line in Balsall Common has been approved by Solihull planners.

The high speed rail developer's final designs for an overbridge on land intersecting Park Lane, to the north Of Lavender Hall Lane, were originally lodged with Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council (SMBC) in September.

The High Speed Rail Act ensures required bridges are built but the authority considers matters related to their design and construction, with the latest application a detailed 'plans and specifications' submission.

As well as the bridge design, permission was also sought for:

• Engineering earthworks to alter ground level on the approaches to the overbridge
• Supporting the vertical realignment of 'Footpath M21'
• Pedestrian access staircases below the overbridge with associated handrails
• Provision of two concrete benches
• Location of permanent boundary fencing, ecological security fencing and safety barriers

HS2 says in a statement included in the application: "The overbridge shall be 77m long and 4.2m wide, with a 40m clear span length over the railway, and a spacious 3m wide deck space for pedestrians.

"The deck surface will be made of resin bound gravel with an impermeable gloss finish, as will the footpath ramps at both entrances.

"There shall be 11m of clearance between the underside of the structure and the cutting below, on which the HS2 mainline shall run.

"There is no reason why the proposed option for 'Footpath M214 Overbridge' ought to or could reasonably be modified."

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Following a consultation in September, on Monday (November 9) officer Mark Andrews, the council's head of planning, design and engagement services granted approval, subject to conditions.

To view the plans search for application PL/2026/01694/HS2DIS at https//publicaccess.solihull.gov.uk/online-applications.

Once completed the high-speed rail link will connect to an interchange station near Birmingham Airport.

The government announced earlier this year the high-speed rail line, running between London and Birmingham, would not open until between 2036 and 2039 – up to six years later than a previous target.