Two giant tunnelling machines have been assembled at Old Oak Common station, ready to begin the 4.5-mile journey towards Euston station. These colossal machines, weighing 1,250 tonnes each, will bore twin tunnels beneath London to create the final section of the high-speed railway.
The machines, named Karen and Madeleine after prominent women in engineering, will take around 18 months to complete the tunnel. Once finished, HS2 trains will be able to travel directly into the heart of London, boosting connectivity between the capital and the Midlands and North.
The project is expected to stimulate economic growth and regeneration in the Euston area, creating thousands of jobs and homes.
Rail Minister Lord Hendy said: “I’m delighted to welcome Mark Wild to HS2 and look forward to working with him to successfully deliver Britain’s largest rail project sensibly and efficiently for the benefit of passengers and taxpayers.
“The sheer scale of the progress at Old Oak Common – and the benefits we will realise from taking HS2 to Euston, as confirmed in the Budget – reminds us that this is a once-in-a-generation project. HS2 will not only improve transport links for millions but unlock huge potential for growth, jobs and regeneration right across the country.”
The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said: “After so much uncertainty, it’s great to finally be working with a Government that recognises the huge importance of this scheme to London and the UK, and understands why terminating HS2 at Euston is so important. It’s exciting that these tunnel boring machines will soon be getting work underway.
“This is another example of the difference that the new Government’s approach is making in London, delivering real benefits that will help to build a fairer and greener London for everyone and deliver the change Britain needs.”
Huw Edwards, Stations Delivery Director, HS2 Ltd, said: “We welcome the commitment from the government to build HS2 all the way to Euston and preparations to tunnel from Old Oak Common are now well underway.
“A terminus station for HS2 in the heart of the capital will provide a vital gateway for passengers travelling to and from the Midlands and North, and will undoubtedly lead to the transport-led regeneration of Euston – supporting growth in the local economy and creating thousands of new homes and jobs.”
The tunnelling machines are being manufactured by Herrenknecht AG and are being operated by the Skanska Costain STRABAG joint venture. The team is also working on the Northolt tunnel, which will connect Old Oak Common with West Ruislip.
As the project progresses, HS2 Ltd is working with the government to finalize the design of Euston station, ensuring it can accommodate HS2 services and support the regeneration of the surrounding area.
