HS2 is making significant strides in its construction of the Edgcote viaduct, a half-kilometre-long structure that will be a key component of the high-speed railway.
Set in the picturesque West Northamptonshire landscape, the viaduct will span the floodplain of the River Cherwell, south of Chipping Warden. Its innovative design, inspired by Spanish high-speed rail projects, is set to revolutionise viaduct construction in the UK.
Key features of the Edgcote viaduct include:
- Off-site manufacturing: To minimise disruption to local communities, the majority of the viaduct's structural elements, including piers, beams, deck planks, and parapets, are being manufactured off-site at a facility in Kent. This approach not only speeds up construction but also significantly reduces the number of lorry movements on local roads.
- Lightweight design: The viaduct's design incorporates a lighter weight approach, reducing the amount of concrete and steel required. This not only makes the structure more efficient but also helps to minimize its environmental impact.
- Innovative beam system: Unlike traditional viaducts, the Edgcote viaduct uses just two large 'U' shaped beams per span, secured directly to neighbouring beams. This innovative system, inspired by Spanish viaducts, eliminates the need for on-site concrete pouring, further accelerating construction and reducing disruption.
- Pre-cast concrete piers: The viaduct will be supported by 20 pairs of pre-cast concrete piers, which will be carefully lifted into position and secured with steel reinforcing rods.
The Edgcote viaduct is just one of many major viaducts being constructed as part of the HS2 project. When completed, HS2 will provide a much-needed boost to the UK's transport infrastructure, freeing up capacity on the existing West Coast Main Line and stimulating economic growth.
Suhel Uddin, HS2 Ltd’s Senior Project Manager, said:
“It’s great to see the first piers in place for Edgcote viaduct after our structural redesign. The success of the Thame Valley viaduct design shows that a two-beam approach can bring significant benefits for viaducts of this length – speeding up construction, boosting efficiency and improving safety on site by reducing the amount of working at height.”
As well as changes to the beams, the piers will also be narrower and extended to almost connect with the parapet edge, helping to enhance the appearance of a light and narrow structure. From a distance, it will be largely hidden by existing hedgerows and woodland.
Photo and Video Credits: HS2
