The construction of the HS2 line between the West Midlands and London is continuing. When complete, HS2 services will run on a dedicated high-speed line between London and the West Midlands, before using the existing West Coast Main Line to reach destinations further nort
Construction of a 14,500-tonne box structure designed to take the new HS2 line under the A46 Kenilworth Bypass in Warwickshire has taken a major step forward following the successful installation of 120 gigantic beams. The concrete beams, ranging between 13 meters and 24 meters in length were carefully lifted into place using three giant cranes to form an integral part of the structure’s top.
With the beams now in place on the box, the finishing touches include completing the deck - the flat surface laid on top of the beams - and the installation of parapets. An innovative technique will be used in the spring to move the completed structure under the existing roadway.
This will involve a jacking mechanism designed by civil engineering specialist Freyssinet. The box will be moved on a guided raft at a speed of up to 2.5 meters per hour over a total distance of 64 meters.
“The next stage includes construction of the deck and installation of the bridge parapets before the bridge can be moved into position under the existing carriageway, allowing HS2 trains to pass underneath,” said John McNiffe, Project Director at Balfour Beatty VINCI.
