Businesses across the UK stand to benefit from HS2's recent achievement at the Delta Junction, as the first huge viaduct section is successfully installed.
This milestone signifies progress in utilising innovative construction techniques to advance the project efficiently.
The 300-tonne steel section, spanning 84 meters, marks the first of two moves for the "East Link Viaduct" assembly, a critical component of the Delta Junction's intricate network. This triangular junction plays a pivotal role in facilitating high-speed rail travel.
The installation employed a specialised push-pull technique, completed ahead of schedule within 11.5 hours. This innovative approach minimises disruption to surrounding areas, ensuring efficient project execution. The Delta Junction comprises a total of 13 viaducts, addressing various geographical challenges and enabling seamless rail connectivity.
Stephen Powell, Head of Delivery - Area North at HS2 Ltd said:
“Building the East Link Viaduct in the Delta Junction is not only a key milestone for the HS2 project in the Midlands but is also critical to our earthworks mass haul strategy to keep construction traffic off the local roads.
“While we continue to construct HS2 in this area, it will provide a crossing route over the highway for construction vehicles to move excavated material from the Bromford Tunnel to other work sites in the Delta Junction, removing thousands of lorry movements from the local road network.”
Before the end of 2024, a similar two-stage operation will move the identical ‘West Link Viaduct’ which runs parallel to the East Link Viaduct.
The layout of the junction means the railway from London curves west on a spur towards Birmingham Curzon Street Station. As trains come out of Birmingham, the line heads north to meet the main HS2 line, which will then connect to the West Coast Main Line to Manchester. The third side of the triangle allows trains to run between London and Manchester without stopping at Birmingham.
The Delta Junction will significantly improve regional and national connectivity, enabling faster and more efficient movement of goods and services. This translates to potential cost reductions and broader market reach for businesses. The project itself is creating substantial job opportunities and stimulating economic growth in surrounding areas.
The successful installation of the first viaduct section marks a significant milestone for HS2 and paves the way for further progress.
Image Credit: HS2
