HS2 Construction Forges Ahead, Challenges Remain

A new report from HS2 Ltd has revealed significant progress in its construction but 2025 will remain a pivotal year for the project.

New CEO Mark Wild, who has been in the office for little over a month has warned though that the project is in a “very serious situation” and needs a “fundamental reset” if it is going to achieve its goals in the coming years.

Cost overruns and delays have plagued HS2, prompting a comprehensive review led by Wild which will aim to address these challenges and ensure the project's delivery within budget and schedule.

Despite facing considerable challenges, the project has achieved key milestones, including the completion of 70% of the twin-bore tunnels and 58% of the extensive earthworks required for the 140-mile line.

The Chiltern Tunnel, at 10 miles long and the deepest on the route, was successfully excavated earlier this year. Construction has also commenced on 158 out of 227 viaducts and bridges, with the iconic Colne Valley Viaduct, the UK's longest rail bridge, nearing completion. This impressive structure will carry the railway over a series of lakes and waterways on the north-west outskirts of London.

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. I am committed to delivering this reset over the coming year to ensure the railway can be brought into service safely and efficiently."

HS2 is expecting to complete a series of construction milestones over the next year including excavation of the 8.4-mile Northolt Tunnel with three tunnelling machines all breaking through in 2025 as well as both bores of the 3.5-mile Bromford Tunnel near Birmingham. Engineers are also hoping to begin construction of the station platforms at Old Oak Common.