Plans for a new elevated urban park in London along an abandoned coal railway line, have advanced, with architects Adams & Sutherland selected to launch a feasibility study for the project.

From April to November 2016, the practice – who designed the Greenway cycle network near the Queen Elizabeth Olympic park – will outline how best to transform the the disused 900m stretch of coal sidings in Peckham, southeast London, into a carefully crafted green space, tourist destination and local landmark called the Peckham Coal Line.

The project will also expand the cycling and pedestrian network between Brixton and the River Thames.

The architects, who won a competition for the project, will be working with engineers Arup, cost consultants Rider Levett Bucknall, planning firm Counterculture Partnership and landscape and planting designers JCLA.

The group behind the project, Friends of the Peckham Coal Line, said: “This project is owned and loved by so many in the community that we wanted to appoint an expert team that can help turn the vision into reality. Adams & Sutherland’s proposals about how to undertake the next stage of the work offered innovation and determination – and we are confident it will help move the project forward.”

In a statement, Adams & Sutherland said: “The Peckham Coal Line is an exciting project full of possibilities that will help benefit the local community. Not only does it aim to deliver a new linear park, the Coal Line is helping to bring the community together through engagement.

“We already know that the Coal Line will combine infrastructure with poetry and genuine social value. Our study will answer the difficult questions: What is it for?, Who will use it?, Who will look after it?, How much will it cost?”

The feasibility study will be developed in collaboration with Southwark Council’s planning authority, the Greater London Authority, resident and community groups and Network Rail, which owns the land. Nearly £76,000 (US$108,300, €96,700) has been raised for the study, with backing from residents, local businesses, charities, the local council and £10,000 (US$14,200, €12,700) from the Mayor of London’s High Street Fund.

A series of community engagement and participation events will be run throughout 2016 to inform the final feasibility study. These will include walks, events and local fairs.

The Peckham Coal Line scheme has been inspired by New York’s High Line and follows in the footsteps of Singapore, Seoul and Sydney.

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