Network Rail has released spectacular aerial video footage of work to realign almost 2km of track between Aylesbury and Princes Risborough stations.
The footage details work on the line which will allow HS2 to build new high-speed lines beneath the existing railway network and shows workers using a ‘New Track Construction’ train to install new sleepers and rail.
Work is continuing on the stretch of line which stretches over a new 100 metre bridge built by HS2.
The specialist train, which is one of only two of its kind in the country, installed just under 3,000 concrete sleepers and a further 2,000 metres of rail earlier this month.
The realignment of the railway in Aylesbury is a key part of the HS2 project. The new embankment and bridge will allow HS2 to build its new high-speed lines beneath the existing railway network.
The work is being carried out by Network Rail and HS2's contractor EKFB. It is expected to be completed in October 2023.
Patrick Cawley, director for ‘On Network Works’ for Network Rail and HS2, said: “We’re now over halfway through our major work in Aylesbury which will pave the way for Britain’s new high-speed railway to be built beneath the existing line and improve journeys for Chiltern Railways passengers who travel between Aylesbury and Princes Risborough stations.
Jacqueline Dey, operations director at Chiltern Railways, said: "We are pleased that these HS2 engineering works are on time, ready for the railway to be handed back at the end of October. We'd like to thank customers for their patience and understanding while this closure takes place, and remind them to check their rail replacement bus journey on the Chiltern Railways website or app before they travel."
Work is continuing on the southern section of HS2, from London to Birmingham, despite recent speculation that the Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak is set to announce the cancellation of the second phase between Birmingham and Manchester.
The completion of the line between London and Birmingham is currently scheduled to be completed by 2031.
Photo Credit: Network Rail
