DEVELON, formerly called Doosan Construction Equipment, has launched the DX235RTF-7 Tunnelling Excavator, a new extension to the company’s line-up of Special Application machines. The DX235RTF-7 is based on Develon’s well-established DX235LCR-7 reduced radius crawler excavator and is powered by a DL06V Stage V engine, providing 141 kW (189 HP) of
World’s largest transformation of an HQ office tower into a sustainable mixed-use building Qatar Investment Authority (“QIA”) and Canary Wharf Group (“CWG”) have just released the first images of architectural plans that display the ambition for the redevelopment of the iconic 8 Canada Square building in Canary Wharf. 8 Canada
Far East Consortium (FEC), the developer working in a joint venture-partnership with Manchester City Council (MCC) to deliver Manchester’s transformative £4 billion Victoria North regeneration project, has appointed CR Construction to deliver the next phase of 895 homes at the vibrant Red Bank neighbourhood. Representatives from FEC and CR Construction
Specialist business property adviser, Christie & Co, has announced the sale of a development site in Cowbridge, South Wales, which benefits from planning consent for 50 retirement living apartments. The site was identified by Mercian Developments Limited as suitable for a retirement living development given its underlying affluent demographic and
Scheme set to enhance Salford’s global reputation for industry and innovation Plans to bring forward Crescent Innovation, a pivotal element of the wider £2.5bn, 252-acre Crescent Salford masterplan, have been approved by Salford City Council. The proposals are being brought forward by the Crescent partnership, comprised of Salford City Council,
Chemstore, the leading expert in hazardous materials storage and a trusted specialist in lithium-ion battery safety, has introduced the BSK1 – Battery Charging and Transport Case. This innovative solution ensures the safe charging, storage, and transport of lithium-ion batteries. The BSK-1 fire has been developed to meet the highest safety standards for
Celebrations have taken place at Wirral Waters yesterday to celebrate the practical completion of the first 150 highly sustainable waterside apartments at Peel Waters’ Millers Quay development. With extensive views across the water, the £130m cornerstone residential scheme of 500 new homes across six buildings is transforming the Left Bank of
The Council’s executive committee will be asked to approve the move to consult on a Neighbourhood Development Framework (NDF) for the east Manchester neighbourhood. Earlier this year, Studio Egret West were chosen to lead a multi-disciplinary team to develop the neighbourhood regeneration plan that will guide investment in Holt Town
HS2’s tunnelling team are celebrating completing half of the 8.4-mile twin bored Northolt Tunnel underneath London. Four tunnel boring machines (TBM) are being used the complete the tunnel that will carry high-speed trains between HS2’s super-hub station at Old Oak Common, west London, and the outskirts of the capital at
Managing Director of McLaren Midlands and North, Gary Cramp, said: “Following the recent election and this afternoon’s King’s Speech, we are feeling ambitious about the UK’s targets to enhance economic growth through the measures outlined. The government will aim to ‘Get Britain Building’ through the planning reform, to accelerate the
DEVELON, formerly called Doosan Construction Equipment, has launched the DX235RTF-7 Tunnelling Excavator, a new extension to the company’s line-up of Special Application machines. The DX235RTF-7 is based on Develon’s well-established DX235LCR-7 reduced radius crawler excavator and is powered by a DL06V Stage V engine, providing 141 kW (189 HP) of power. The DX235RTF-7 utilises the successful compact design and minimum swing radius of the DX235LCR-7, but the key part of the machine is the heavy duty Tunnelling Front, offering a new arm and boom design with special kinematics and a tilting function. Jan Breburda, Special Applications Product Manager for Develon Europe, commented: “The new DX235RTF-7 tunnelling machine is designed for superior performance in challenging underground environments. Complementing the safety and comfort of its operation, the advanced hydraulics and robust construction of the DX235RTF-7 ensure optimal power and durability, while its compact design allows for easy navigation in tight spaces.” The DX235RTF-7 has a total operating weight of 25,689 kg and offers a maximum reach of 9260 mm. The kinematics of the tunnelling front on the DX235RTF-7 excavator are designed to prioritize horizontal reach and precision over vertical movement. The special kinematics are based around a boom tilting function, providing a 45°/45° tilt in two directions, the movement of which can be operated via a pedal in the operator’s cab. The boom and arm configuration is specifically designed for operation in narrow areas, with ranges of movement slightly limited compared to the standard front on the DX235LCR-7. The DX235RTF-7 is specifically suited to work in restricted environments, without using the swing movement in narrow areas. This allows the DX235RTF-7 to work efficiently in narrow tunnels with the ability to reach the tunnel face and walls, while maintaining a low profile to navigate tight spaces. For work in confined spaces, the DX235RTF-7 features protective equipment to safeguard against falling debris or contact of the arm with the tunnel ceiling and walls. As a result, the DX235RTF-7 has a level 2 FOG system combined with more heavy duty covers and hydraulic piping protection. The protection also includes covers over hydraulic hoses and arm work lights, as well as enclosing the bucket cylinder and links in a dedicated protective compartment and hiding the arm cylinder under the arm. Compared to the standard DX235LCR-7 model, the DX235RTF-7 has six LED work lights, four on the front and two on the back, as well as AVM cameras as standard. Other features include PERO rotating piping, centralized greasing points and a dozer blade as an option. The specifications also include a 6.4 tonne counterweight and 600 mm wide triple grouser track shoes. Tunnelling applications often require the transportation of the machine to areas with limited access, so the DX235RTF-7 is designed to be simple to lift and manoeuvre into place. Specifications for DX235RTF-7 Tunnelling Excavator: Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
World’s largest transformation of an HQ office tower into a sustainable mixed-use building Qatar Investment Authority (“QIA”) and Canary Wharf Group (“CWG”) have just released the first images of architectural plans that display the ambition for the redevelopment of the iconic 8 Canada Square building in Canary Wharf. 8 Canada Square is fully owned by QIA, and CWG is the development partner. Kohn Pedersen Fox (“KPF”), the world-renowned architectural practice won a global competition run by QIA and CWG to reimagine the building. KPF will work with a market-leading team across design, engineering, planning and delivery on one of the world’s largest redevelopment projects. The project is set to begin in 2027, following the expiry of the current HSBC lease. The images of the 1.1 million sq ft building demonstrate the transformation into a unique destination, which will include best-in-class workspaces, leisure, entertainment, education, and cultural attractions. The redevelopment will create a unique proposition for businesses within 8 Canada Square, with unparalleled sustainability credentials, excellent transport links and amenities. Set in the heart of Canary Wharf, the plans will enable a new publicly accessible route between the adjacent Elizabeth line station and Canada Square Park as well as offering the outstanding views across London from Canary Wharf to the public for the first time. The investment from QIA to transform 8 Canada Square is a flagship example of the sovereign fund’s vision for multi-use real estate of the future, ensuring that the iconic building has world-class ESG credentials and meets the changing requirements of business for the long term. The building’s changing shape will create a unique proposition for businesses within 8 Canada Square, with users also benefitting from being in Canary Wharf, where visitor numbers are at an all-time high with 67.2 million people visiting Canary Wharf during 2023. Shobi Khan, CEO of CWG, added, “We look forward to working with QIA on 8 Canada Square to deliver a building of outstanding design, engineering and sustainability standards. This redevelopment is another step in Canary Wharf’s evolution into a vibrant mixed-use neighbourhood offering workspace, retail, homes, leisure and amenities all in one location – a true 15-minute city.” Elie Gamburg, Design Principal at Kohn Pedersen Fox (KPF), said: “We are extremely excited to collaborate with QIA and CWG to reimagine the single-use office building as a blueprint for the highly sustainable, mixed-use building of the future. This transformation embodies the ethos behind much of our work, we see it as an integral part of the evolution of today’s single-use neighbourhoods into vibrant mixed-use neighbourhoods of tomorrow – an evolution of which CWG is already leading the way.” CWG and QIA will be working with the London Borough of Tower Hamlets and the appointed team to develop plans and submit a planning application. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Far East Consortium (FEC), the developer working in a joint venture-partnership with Manchester City Council (MCC) to deliver Manchester’s transformative £4 billion Victoria North regeneration project, has appointed CR Construction to deliver the next phase of 895 homes at the vibrant Red Bank neighbourhood. Representatives from FEC and CR Construction were in attendance at a signing ceremony on site on Wednesday 17th July to celebrate this significant milestone in the development process. FEC secured planning permission in August 2023 for 1,551 new homes, across plots known as NT02, NT03 and NT04, along Dantzic Street, together with a separate outline planning permission for a further 3,250 new homes within Red Bank under its transformative ‘Wild Urbanism’ concept which seeks to prioritise green space, biodiversity and active travel. CR Construction is currently working on FEC’s neighbouring 634-home Victoria Riverside development which is due to complete in early 2025. Building on the success of this partnership, CR Construction will now deliver the next phase of Red Bank Riverside on plots NT02 & NT03 on Dantzic Street, which will include a collection of three towers reaching 20, 31 and 34 storeys-high, and another mid-rise, nine-storey block set within extensive public realm. The scheme was designed by Hawkins\Brown Architects and Schulze+Grassov in collaboration with Optimised Environments landscape architects. Works are due to start on site early next year, following the completion of the enabling works by Manchester City Council and its appointed contractor BAM, which is funded under the Housing Infrastructure Funding secured by the joint venture in 2019. Nick Whitehouse, Delivery Director at FEC, said: “The execution of this contract to deliver the next phase of Red Bank Riverside is another significant milestone for one of the country’s largest regeneration projects. We’re pleased to engage the market leading skills of CR Construction on this exciting project.” Calum Kidd, Managing Director said: “CR Construction are delighted to expand upon our existing working relationship with FEC in the UK. Securing this project is another significant milestone for us as we further establish our business and presence in the UK market as we continue to deliver on our promise to be one of the best, providing added value to our clients, partners and stakeholders.” Shane Kelly, Projects Director at CR Construction said: “We look forward to delivering another prestigious, high quality residential project with FEC in Manchester. Our market presence in the North West is now well established and our reputation is growing as we continue to demonstrate our ability to deliver’’ Apartments are now available for reservation at the 189-home Falcon, with the next tower due to launch to the market later this year. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Specialist business property adviser, Christie & Co, has announced the sale of a development site in Cowbridge, South Wales, which benefits from planning consent for 50 retirement living apartments. The site was identified by Mercian Developments Limited as suitable for a retirement living development given its underlying affluent demographic and proximity to a wide range of amenities on Cowbridge’s bustling High Street. McCarthy Stone submitted and secured planning consent for a scheme of 50 retirement living apartments (C3) with communal facilities and has subsequently acquired the site from Mercian. Leah Tattersall Land Manager at McCarthy Stone, comments, “It is great news to complete on this site acquired from Mercian Developments after successfully securing a first-time planning consent. We very much look forward to bringing more high-quality retirement living homes to South Wales. Thanks to Christie & Co and Mercian Developments for their collaboration in making this happen.” Chris Towers, Managing Director of Mercian Developments, comments, “We are delighted to have worked with McCarthy Stone on this project, who were successful in securing this planning consent, which is a prime example of a great team effort. This strategically located site will bring forward the redevelopment of a former farmstead, which will be regenerated to deliver new retirement apartments for the elderly residents of Cowbridge and beyond that will integrate well within the local community.” Jordan Rundle, Director – Head of Healthcare Development at Christie & Co, who acted for Mercian Developments in the sale, comments, “According to the ONS, as of 2021 the total population in Wales was circa 3.1 million, with those aged 65 years and over accounting for circa 21%, equating to approximately 650,000 people. Consequently, there is a significant opportunity for developers and operators to provide much-needed future-proof later living accommodation in the country. McCarthy Stone’s high-quality retirement living scheme in the desirable market town of Cowbridge is another example of increased development activity we are now seeing as a trend in Wales.” The site was sold for an undisclosed price. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Scheme set to enhance Salford’s global reputation for industry and innovation Plans to bring forward Crescent Innovation, a pivotal element of the wider £2.5bn, 252-acre Crescent Salford masterplan, have been approved by Salford City Council. The proposals are being brought forward by the Crescent partnership, comprised of Salford City Council, the University of Salford, and ECF – a joint venture between Homes England, Legal & General, and Muse. The scheme comprises 933 new homes, 1.7m sq ft of new commercial innovation, academic, and research floorspace, active ground-floor space, and a new movement hub, along with significant improvements to public spaces. Creating a high-quality innovation ecosystem around the University of Salford, Crescent Innovation will build on existing world-class research and development capabilities; help drive further economic growth in the city and wider region; and facilitate enhanced links between academia, research, and business. Spanning 29 acres between Broughton Road East and University Road, Crescent Innovation will be linked to the wider masterplan by Salford Rise – a near five-acre podium which will span Frederick Road. Laying the foundations for connectivity and collaboration, Salford Rise will act as a key gateway between the University of Salford’s campus and the wider innovation zone. Salford City Mayor, Paul Dennett, said: “With our Crescent partners – ECF and University of Salford – we are pushing ahead with our vision to create world-class research and development facilities that local people and businesses can benefit from. The Crescent Innovation proposals are a key element of the wider vision for the Crescent area and will change the face of the area through the creation of a high-quality innovation environment, where people can achieve their full potential. I am delighted to see that this important planning application has been approved and look forward to seeing our vision delivered on the ground.” Vice-Chancellor of the University of Salford, Professor Nic Beech, commented: “This is a major milestone in our shared mission to transform Salford into a global hub for innovation and groundbreaking research. Working alongside our Crescent partners, we are committed to advancing our vision of creating world-class facilities that will benefit local residents and businesses. I am thrilled that this significant planning application has been approved and eagerly anticipate seeing our shared vision come to life.” Max Bentham, Development Director at ECF, said: “The approval of the plans for Crescent Innovation marks a significant step forward in our collective mission to make Salford a global hub for innovation and groundbreaking research. The city has always been a pioneer of industry, and the creation of Crescent Innovation will equip Salford – and the wider region – with the facilities and opportunities to make an impact on the world stage, as well as driving growth and prosperity.” Crescent Innovation forms one aspect of the Crescent masterplan being delivered by ECF in partnership with Salford City Council and the University of Salford. It will bring together industry, education, and the local community by delivering more than 3,000 homes, 1m sq ft of offices, retail, leisure, a new multi-model transport hub, and vast areas of green space. The site is located within Salford’s Innovation Triangle, which is made up of Salford Quays and MediaCityUK, the University of Salford, and Salford Royal Hospital. The go-ahead for Crescent Innovation follows the completion of three world-leading university facilities – the North of England Robotics Innovation Centre, the Science, Engineering, and Environment (SEE) building, and Energy House 2.0. CBRE advised ECF on planning for Crescent Innovation, while Make Architects is leading on design. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Chemstore, the leading expert in hazardous materials storage and a trusted specialist in lithium-ion battery safety, has introduced the BSK1 – Battery Charging and Transport Case. This innovative solution ensures the safe charging, storage, and transport of lithium-ion batteries. The BSK-1 fire has been developed to meet the highest safety standards for lithium-ion battery storage and transport. Its unique cable gland design allows users to safely charge their batteries within the case, ensuring maximum safety and convenience. The case’s lightweight and robust construction, coupled with its easy handling, makes it suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. Key features of the BSK-1 fire protection case include: • Affordablility: BSK-1 is available for less than £500 per unit • Fire-resistant interior fittings: Derived from cutting-edge fire and explosion protection technologies, including dust-free PyroBubbles cushions. • Maximum protection: The case maintains an outside temperature below 100 °C, with no emission of flames or splinters in the event of an emergency, providing top-tier protection for people and their surroundings. • High dielectric safety: Suitable for strong power tools or defective batteries, ensuring versatile use. • Tested technology: Developed according to the latest hazardous goods technology and successfully tested in real-time fire scenarios. • Capacity: Accommodates a maximum dangerous goods weight of 8 kg with inner dimensions of 520 x 320 x 245 mm. Rising incidence of lithium-ion battery fires There has been a significant rise in the use of lithium-ion batteries globally, driven by the growing popularity of power tools, electric vehicles, and portable electronics. However, this surge in usage has also led to a concerning rise in lithium-ion battery fires, with UK fire services attending 46% more fires linked to lithium-ion batteries in 2023 than 2022. The impact of lithium-ion battery fires can be devastating; a factory fire in South Korea in June 2024, involving exploding lithium-ion batteries tragically resulted in 22 fatalities and highlights the urgent need for reliable and safe storage solutions . Speak to the experts As the go-to experts for lithium-ion battery storage, Chemstore has become the preferred partner for industry leaders across multiple sectors, including construction, education, logistics and motorsport, where the demand for safe battery storage is paramount. The BSK-1 represents the latest addition to Chemstore’s expanding range of lithium-ion battery storage solutions, which includes safety products at every stage of the process when working with lithium-ion batteries, including: – Mike Brodie, Managing Director of Chemstore, commented on the launch: “The BSK1 – Battery Charging and Transport Case is a simple yet effective solution to the increasingly common problem of safely charging, storing, and transporting lithium-ion batteries. Whether for power tools, ebike/escooter charging or defective batteries, the BSK-1 offers peace of mind that batteries are protected.” “We are thrilled to expand our lithium-ion battery storage offering, reinforcing our commitment to providing cutting-edge solutions that address the evolving needs of our customers and ensure the highest safety standards.” For more information on the BSK-1 fire protection case and other lithium-ion battery storage solutions, visit: www.chemstore.co.uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Celebrations have taken place at Wirral Waters yesterday to celebrate the practical completion of the first 150 highly sustainable waterside apartments at Peel Waters’ Millers Quay development. With extensive views across the water, the £130m cornerstone residential scheme of 500 new homes across six buildings is transforming the Left Bank of the River Mersey and seen as an exemplar in brownfield regeneration. Millers Quay is the single biggest development to date at Wirral Waters, the largest regeneration project of its kind in the UK. The transformational Millers Quay development will also include 100 affordable new homes and has been commended for the social impact delivered within the local community. Following completion, residents will shortly move into the one- and two-bedroom apartments within phase one, which includes blocks ‘Copper Mill’ and ‘Steam Yard’. Phase two, the final 350 new homes, within blocks Soda Factory, Salt House, Glaze Works and Lime Studio, are expected to complete early in 2025. Millers Quay is part of the emerging Northbank neighbourhood at Wirral Waters, where contemporary and sustainable urban living is surrounded by green spaces and dockside walkways. Representatives gathered yesterday from Peel Waters, its funding partner, Pension Insurance Corporation plc (“PIC”), construction firm GRAHAM, Homes England, Wirral Council, and staff and students from Wirral Met College, who have all been instrumental in the delivery of Millers Quay, to celebrate the practical completion of Millers Quay phase one. Designed in collaboration with award-winning architects Howells, Millers Quay offers striking architecture, drawing inspiration from the vibrant colours, metalwork, and warehouses that defined the area’s 19th Century industrial heritage. These waterfront apartments also offer expansive views, south-facing shared spaces, dockside walkways, and access to new green spaces and micro parks, inviting residents to immerse themselves in nature while enjoying urban comforts. With 100 affordable new homes included, this transformational residential scheme is delivering high levels of sustainability and social impact. Throughout its construction, a wide range of unique learning and employment opportunities have engaged the local community and students at neighbouring Wirral Met College. Wirral Waters is part of Peel Waters, a UK wide portfolio of vibrant and innovative, waterfront developments, delivering large-scale, sustainable regeneration projects, creating jobs, economic growth, new homes and new public realm across the country. Richard Mawdsley, Development Director at Wirral Waters, said: “We are very proud to mark this special moment in Wirral Waters’ history with the practical completion of the first phase of this mammoth project. Millers Quay is the result of incredible partnership working between Peel Waters, PIC, GRAHAM, Homes England, Wirral Council and Wirral Met College, each bringing something very important to the project. “The impact that this development has had on local construction students and the local community over the last couple of years is truly inspiring and the innovation and skills learnt around green methods of construction will benefit many future generations too. This great work continues as we look forward to completing phase two early next year.” James Agar, Head of Long Income at PIC, said: “Millers Quay exemplifies the ideal partnership of a long-term investor, a highly experienced developer, and a forward-thinking local authority working together to generate a development of considerable social value. “As an example, over the course of construction the average monthly spend on local labour has exceeded £1 million per month with 41% of the costs of construction placed with businesses located within a 50-mile radius of Wirral Waters. The benefits of cutting the distance goods and contractors need to travel has helped to reducing energy consumption, particularly of fossil fuels. “This Build-to Rent development has been funded through a long-term, regeneration lease structure, which operates like a fully amortising loan, providing funding for Wirral Council, which would not have been available from traditional sources. Wirral Council will now lease the buildings for 50 years, with annual rent increases linked to inflation, after which ownership of the building will pass to Wirral Council.” Peter Reavey, Regional Director at GRAHAM, said: “Millers Quay exemplifies our commitment to delivering high-quality, sustainable homes that positively impact the local community. We are particularly proud of the unique learning and employment opportunities this project has provided to local construction students, fostering the next generation of skilled professionals. Additionally, the development has supported local businesses and created jobs, demonstrating the positive social impact we aim to achieve through our projects.” Leader of Wirral Council, Cllr Paul Stuart, said: “As well as being a colourful and prominent new landmark on Wirral’s skyline, Millers Quay is an important and successful example of the council’s commitment to working with partners in providing new homes while demonstrating our commitment to a pro-growth, brownfield-only local plan. Including many affordable homes in this development, working with students at Wirral Met College throughout the construction, engaging with the local community, and showing how we attract vital inward investment demonstrate how regeneration can and will deliver for everyone across our borough.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The Council’s executive committee will be asked to approve the move to consult on a Neighbourhood Development Framework (NDF) for the east Manchester neighbourhood. Earlier this year, Studio Egret West were chosen to lead a multi-disciplinary team to develop the neighbourhood regeneration plan that will guide investment in Holt Town over the next decade and more. Holt Town presents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to transform 74 acres (30ha) of brownfield land to create a link between Manchester’s city centre and Sports City and the Etihad Campus in east Manchester – two key economic drivers for the city – and presents a natural extension of the ongoing, long-term regeneration in Ancoats and New Islington. The NDF will present: The proposals will look to deliver a major mixed-used, residential led programme of regeneration that will have the capacity to deliver 4,500 new homes, with significant affordable housing alongside a range of tenures and housing types to help diversify the housing offer in the city. The vision presents a low carbon, sustainable neighbourhood that will take a nature-based approach to development. The investment will change the face of the area from post-industrial to modern urban district while celebrating the existing heritage buildings and canal waterways. The pockets of nature that have persisted against the backdrop of industrial decline will be enhanced and woodland regrown as part of the ambition to create 15 acres of new and enhanced public and green space, including a 1km play link for you people to enjoy outdoor activities safely. Investment in new commercial space has the potential to create around 1,500 new local full-time jobs and the growing neighbourhood will include a new cultural and community space for local residents. The community will enjoy low-car principles, underpinned by safe walking and cycling routes connecting the emerging district to the surrounding communities and the city centre – and supported by a new mobility hub to help limit the number of cars in the area. The development framework also considers the need for new health and education services for the community to meet a growing need in the area. And the Council is also exploring how digital technologies can be embedded into the fabric of urban regeneration projects to modernise the way residents can access public services – from traffic management, waste collection and neighbourhood management to health and social care. Following executive approval, a six-week consultation is expected to begin later this summer. Cllr Bev Craig, Leader of the Council, said: “The evolution of East Manchester over the last two decades is driving forward our exciting plans for Holt Town. The neighbourhood is an under loved area of the city and investment in this community will create that vital missing link between the city centre, Ancoats and New Islington and the ongoing investment at Sport City and the Etihad Campus. “Holt Town is an ambitious opportunity to create the equivalent of a new town in the city. A brand new district showcasing innovation, culture and sustainability – including 4,500 new homes, with a focus on affordable housing – that will support continued and sustainable economic growth for our city. “The momentum to deliver our ambitions follows the successful regeneration of Ancoats and New Islington and this platform is already driving the regeneration ambitions for Holt Town – which will drive innovation, create new jobs and support population growth, new high quality green spaces, and a new era for urban renewal in Manchester.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
HS2’s tunnelling team are celebrating completing half of the 8.4-mile twin bored Northolt Tunnel underneath London. Four tunnel boring machines (TBM) are being used the complete the tunnel that will carry high-speed trains between HS2’s super-hub station at Old Oak Common, west London, and the outskirts of the capital at West Ruislip. The machines will excavate 16.8 miles of tunnel overall – two bores over the 8.4-mile length – making it the second longest tunnel on the new railway after one recently excavated beneath the Chiltern Hills. The first machine, named Sushila after a local teacher, was launched eastwards from West Ruislip in October 2022. This was followed one month later by TBM Caroline, named after astrologer Caroline Herschel, which is used to excavate the adjacent tunnel. Both will complete 5 miles of the route, finishing their journeys at the Green Park Way vent shaft in Greenford – just over half way – where they will be lifted out. In February this year, TBM Emily, which is named after Emily Sophia Taylor, began its journey west from HS2’s Victoria Road Crossover Box site near Old Oak Common towards Greenford. She was joined by the fourth machine, named Anne, after Lady Anne Byron, in May. They will both complete 3.4 miles of the tunnel. Combined, the four machines have now travelled over 8.4 miles – half of the total distance for the twin-bored tunnel. The completion of each tunnel drive will be staggered as they reach the final destination at Green Park Way, with the first TBM, Sushila, arriving later this year. Each machine operates like an underground factory, excavating the tunnels, lining them with pre-cast concrete tunnel segments, grouting them into place before moving forward at an average speed of 16 metres per day. Teams work around the clock below ground on the TBMs along with teams on the surface supporting them. Marking the significance of the tunnelling milestone, Malcolm Codling, Client Director for HS2 Ltd, said: “Our London tunnels team are making significant progress taking HS2 from design to reality underneath the capital, building Britain’s new transformational low carbon railway. Completing half of the Northolt Tunnel has come after years of work from the team and we are now looking forwards to the TBMs reaching the end of their journeys, with the first arriving at Green Park Way in Greenford later this year. “ As the TBMs progress, other vital features of the tunnel are put in place such as cross passages, vent shafts and headhouses. Along the Northolt Tunnel there are five shafts and headhouses which will provide ventilation systems and emergency access to the tunnel when in operation. Between them, the quartet of machines have excavated nearly 2 million tonnes of earth. The excavated material is being put to beneficial reuse. Around the West Ruislip portal, it is being used around the Copthall Green Tunnel, to remodel a nearby golf course that has been impacted by HS2’s tunnelling and is being used sustainably to create new green spaces in the Hillingdon area surrounding the new railway. London Clay removed from the Victoria Road Crossover Box side of the tunnel, is being taken to the London Logistics hub using a spoil conveyor. From there it is taken by rail to beneficial reuse sites across the UK in Rugby, Kent and Cambridgeshire. The logistics hub has now transported over 2 million tonnes of materials to these sites, which are being used to backfill quarries to support housing developments and build wildlife areas for birds. The Northolt Tunnel is being built by a joint venture formed of the companies Skanska, Costain and STRABAG (SCS). The same JV will also construct the Euston Tunnel eastward from Old Oak Common to the centre of London. James Richardson, Managing Director of Skanska Costain STRABAG joint venture, said: “Reaching the halfway point of our tunnelling programme for the Northolt Tunnel demonstrates the huge progress achieved to date on one of the most complex and ambitious programmes embarked upon in the UK. Alongside the tunnelling operations we are now moving into the fitout stage of the works in readiness for track and rail systems to be installed. “At Old Oak Common, we are gearing up to assemble and install our final two TBMs, ready to take the high-speed line into central London.” In May, HS2 revealed that across the route between London and the West Midlands, half of all the twin bored tunnel had been complete highlighting the significant progress HS2’s 31,000 strong workforce have made in constructing Britain’s new high speed rail line. Two of the tunnels are now complete – one stretching for 10 miles under the Chiltern Hills and another one-mile in length beneath Long Itchington Wood in Warwickshire. Two others remain under construction – the Northolt Tunnel in London and the 3.5-mile Bromford Tunnel in the West Midlands taking the line into central Birmingham. Preparations to bore the final tunnel between Old Oak Common station and Euston are underway with two further TBMs due to arrive in the UK this summer ready to be assembled in the underground box at the station site. Timings and funding for the construction of the Euston Tunnel are being confirmed with government. When complete, HS2 will improve connections between London and the West Midlands, with trains running further north on existing lines. The new high speed railway will create quicker and more reliable journeys, driving economic growth while crucially freeing up space for more local trains on the most congested part of the existing West Coast Main Line. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Managing Director of McLaren Midlands and North, Gary Cramp, said: “Following the recent election and this afternoon’s King’s Speech, we are feeling ambitious about the UK’s targets to enhance economic growth through the measures outlined. The government will aim to ‘Get Britain Building’ through the planning reform, to accelerate the delivery of high-quality infrastructure and housing and the English Devolution Bill will introduce increased powers for combined authorities and local leaders. “With the government focusing on enhancing Britain’s position as a leading industrial nation, the transport and industrial and logistics sectors will be key areas for growth, and we are feeling positive about the future economic benefits and opportunities that new powers for combined authorities and mayors in the Midlands and North region, will bring to local communities.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals