Enabling works – North HS2 Phase 1

The delivery of the new rail project is a highly complex task, and preparation of the route for the main works contractors presents diverse challenges. To achieve this the project team worked with our client and over 50 Tier 2 contractors, at more than 600 individual work package locations, to plan, design and deliver dozens of work packages covering archaeology, demolition, land clearance and environmental mitigation, as well as diversion and supporting construction works for utilities, roads and services affected by the new line. The project team challenged suppliers to innovate in their delivery programmes. 

Results included a novel initiative for tracking protected species (a vital part of our work) and the use of solar cells to power a site compound. Perhaps the most innovative element was in the virtual design of bridges, where digital engineering and the team’s offsite manufacturing capabilities combined to create a modular construction solution, which was utilised in several major structures.