Buildoffsite visits to HS2 precast factory
Construction of the Chiltern tunnel, and nearby Colne Valley Viaduct, is being led by HS2’s main works contractor, Align JV – a joint venture made up of three companies: Bouygues Travaux Publics, Sir Robert McAlpine, and Volker Fitzpatrick. Work is underway with the help two Tunnel Boring Machines (TBMs) spending more than 3 years underground, digging and slotting 112,000 wall segments into place to create the 10 mile long Chiltern tunnel.
The segments are being produced at a temporary pre-cast factory next to the TBM launch pads at what will be the south portal of the tunnels. This will avoid putting extra HGVs on local roads and ensure a steady supply of segments for the TBMs. Once construction is complete, the pre-cast factory and the rest of the south portal site, will be cleared, with the chalk excavated from the tunnels used to landscape the site and create high quality chalk grassland and other wildlife habitats.
Buildoffsite members will be able to visit the Chiltern tunnel precast factory site in the Colne Valley on Wednesday 12th October and Wednesday 16th November.
For logistical reasons the numbers are restricted to 5 members (one per company) per visit. Places will be allocated to transport hub members first and others will be registered on a first come, first served basis.
Agenda:
09:30 – Arrive at car park and check in at visitor centre
09:30-10:00 – Welcome and project presentation at visitor centre
10:00-10:15 – PPE up at visitor centre
10:15-11:30 – Walk to and visit tunnel precast factory
11.30-12.00 – Return to visitor centre car park
Register here for:
Wednesday 14th September – Fully booked
Wednesday 12th October – Fully booked
A video explaining the work can be found here.