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Spotted: The US studio James Corner Field Operations has been chosen to turn a kilometre-long section of a disused railway in central London into “a garden in the sky”.

Named the Camden Highline, the linear park will run from Camden to King’s Cross on a section of railway viaduct that was abandoned around 30 years ago.

“We could not be more excited to work with residents and stakeholders to create a one-of-a-kind elevated park along the viaduct that speaks to the magical symbiosis of nature, culture, arts, and community,” said James Corner, lead designer at James Corner Field Operations.

The park will be located eight metres above ground, with staircases positioned along its route for access. There will be a timber walkway along its length, with sections of the walkway for picnic tables, conversation pits, grandstand seating and trampolines. Birch and oak trees, butterfly gardens and perennials will be planted with hanging vines, to grow over the edge of the viaduct. 

The project was inspired by the highly successful New York linear park “New York High Line”, which was also designed by James Corner Field Operations. For the London version, the American designers will collaborate with local studio vPPR Architects, London artist Hew Locke, community consultant Street Space and Dutch garden designer Piet Oudolf, who designed the gardens for the New York High Line.

Written By: Katrina Lane

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