Progress made to deliver HS2 is outlined today in figures showing that the majority of the deep tunnel drives and earthworks needed for the high-speed railway have now been completed.
Despite the programme’s challenges, a considerable amount of work has been carried out on the civil engineering that will lay the foundations for the 140-mile line between London and the West Midlands.
Key achievements:
- Tunnelling: 70 per cent of twin-bore tunnels have been excavated, representing 38 of the 55 miles being built for the railway. This includes the breakthrough of the Chiltern Tunnel, the longest and deepest on the route.
- Earthworks: 58 per cent of earthworks for cuttings, embankments, stations, and landscaping have been completed, representing almost 92 million cubic metres of material moved.
- Viaducts and Bridges: Construction has started on 158 out of 227 viaducts and bridges, with 13 already built. The deck of the 2.1-mile Colne Valley Viaduct, the UK’s longest rail bridge, has been completed.
- Green Tunnels: Work has progressed on the six cut-and-cover tunnels, with the 700m tunnel near Burton Green passing the half-way mark.
Challenges and Reset:
HS2 is being built as a long-term strategic asset for the UK, but the programme faces significant challenges, particularly over cost. Mark Wild, HS2 Ltd Chief Executive, is leading a wide-ranging review of the programme which will report next year. This will lead to a full reset of HS2, with renewed certainty being provided to government over cost and schedule.
Mark Wild said: “HS2 represents a significant investment in Britain’s future and in the last month I’ve been inspired by the hugely impressive feats of civil engineering taking shape right along the route. New railways provide better journeys and they boost economic growth by fuelling investment in communities and businesses.
“The prize is clear. However, the programme is in a very serious situation that requires a fundamental reset to enable it to be delivered to the lowest feasible cost. I am committed to delivering this reset over the coming year to ensure the railway can be brought into service safely and efficiently.”
Next year marks the bicentenary of the railways. HS2 Ltd expects to pass a series of major construction milestones in 2025, including:
- Completion of the Northolt Tunnel
- Completion of both bores of the Bromford Tunnel
- Completion of the base slab of Old Oak Common station box
- Completion of the first deck section of the River Tame West Viaduct
- Completion of the Copthall tunnel
