GLOBAL engineering firm Buro Happold is playing a key role in designing a sustainable future for the Al Khuwair Downtown development, working alongside the Ministry of Housing and Urban Planning  and lead architects Zaha Hadid Architects. Its focus is on crafting a climate-resilient and sustainable urban centre.

The firm’s strategy prioritises responsible material use throughout the project.

“We’re exploring the circular use of on-site materials, with the potential to use material generated from the canal excavation for the offshore reclamation,” Federico Cassani, Buro Happold’s Partner and Director of Transport and Mobility tells Gulf Construction. “We are also looking at the opportunity to re-use the concrete armour units from the existing breakwater structures within the proposed scheme to reduce the carbon footprint of the marine works. Hard engineered marine structures will be balanced with nature-based solutions to maximise flood protection, whilst achieving ecological enhancements.”

“Sustainable and innovative mobility solutions are the backbone of the masterplan. A fine-grained array of mobility solutions, promoting active travel, micromobility and new transit lines will redesign the Downtown as an active, vibrant and non-car-based community,” he adds.