The HS2 project marks a significant achievement with the completion of its first viaduct in Northamptonshire.
- The Highfurlong Brook Viaduct, spanning 163 metres, is among over 50 viaducts under construction for the HS2 London-Birmingham route.
- Constructed by EKFB, the viaduct comprises seven spans with beams up to 25 metres long, demonstrating significant engineering prowess.
- Completion of the viaduct’s deck and parapets signifies the first structurally complete viaduct in the HS2 programme.
- The project progresses to include earthworks and rail system installations as the viaduct now stands structurally complete.
The Highfurlong Brook Viaduct, located near Aston le Walls, is an impressive structure stretching 163 metres in length and standing at approximately nine metres in height. This viaduct is a part of an extensive network of over 50 such structures planned for the HS2 railway line connecting London and Birmingham. Each span of the viaduct, numbering seven in total, was meticulously constructed using four beams per span, with each beam weighing up to 56 tonnes. These beams, reaching lengths of up to 25 metres, were manufactured off-site, ensuring precision and quality in their production.
The construction of the Highfurlong Brook Viaduct showcases a blend of traditional and innovative construction techniques. The deck, integral for supporting the train tracks and electrical systems, was poured on-site, underscoring the project’s commitment to employing robust construction methodologies. Additionally, parapets along each side of the viaduct were crafted and installed over a careful four-month period, contributing to the viaduct’s structural integrity. As one of approximately 500 bridging structures on the HS2 project, which vary from small road bridges to expansive viaducts, the Highfurlong Brook Viaduct signifies a pivotal achievement.
The joint venture responsible for this engineering feat, EKFB – comprising Eiffage, Kier, Ferrovial Construction, and Bam Nuttall – delivered the project over two years, guided by designs from ASC, a collaboration between Arcadis, Setec, and Cowi, along with architect Moxon. “We have achieved many ‘firsts’ with Highfurlong Viaduct,” stated EKFB’s project manager Scott Corsar, highlighting the structural completion milestones attained through dedicated teamwork across various levels of the project.
With the viaduct now structurally complete, plans are underway to advance to subsequent construction phases, which will focus on earthworks designed to support the railway’s end sections. These earthworks are a precursor to the next wave of installations, including rail systems that encompass track, signalling, power, and communications systems. As this phase concludes, new contractors will continue to build upon the solid foundation laid by the viaduct’s completion.
The completion of the Highfurlong Brook Viaduct marks a pivotal step forward in the HS2 railway project, facilitating progress towards future construction phases.
