Major progress is underway at the HS2 Birmingham Curzon Street station as piling works have commenced, marking a significant step in the station’s construction.
- Engineers will install 2,000 concrete piles over a 100,000m2 area to support the new station building, platforms, and operational facilities.
- The piling operations, supported by subcontractors including Keltbray, involve a team of 80 experts and specialised equipment, and will continue until mid-2025.
- This initial phase of construction enables further foundational work, facilitating the retention of existing structures and the creation of new facilities, while also signalling job opportunities locally.
- The project, under the direction of Mace Dragados JV, highlights collaboration with local authorities and aims to enhance employment through apprenticeships and contracts.
The commencement of piling works at the HS2 Birmingham Curzon Street station signifies a major milestone in the development of this critical transport hub. With 2,000 concrete piles to be installed across the sprawling 100,000m2 site, the project’s scale is substantial. These piles are essential to support the new station’s structure and platforms, as well as operational facilities housed within the basement. This foundational work, anticipated to last until mid-2025, is crucial for the structural integrity of the upcoming transport landmark.
Mace Dragados JV (MDJV) leads the project, employing a dynamic team of 80 professionals who utilise three 95-tonne piling rigs, reaching heights of 30 metres. Supported by subcontractors like Keltbray, the team has prepared extensively through significant earthworks and the installation of temporary platforms to facilitate the efficient execution of the piling process. This collaboration and meticulous preparation underscore the project’s complexity and the expertise required in executing such undertakings.
The project’s scope is not limited to the piling work alone. The continuation of foundation work post-piling will support the creation of a new retaining wall, which is designed to reinforce the existing Victorian Network Rail wall near the West Coast Main Line. This effort ensures the preservation of historic infrastructure while paving the way for modern developments. The design specifics, particularly concerning the station’s roof and internal features, remain under finalisation, illustrating the ongoing effort to perfect the station’s plans.
While the construction progresses, there is a concerted effort to boost local employment and skills development. Presently, 18 apprentices are involved in the station’s construction programme, and initiatives with the Birmingham City Council’s Employment Access Team have successfully recruited previously unemployed individuals. According to Gerard Smith, MDJV’s skills and employment lead, the project is on track to meet its target of 100 apprentices. This approach aims to harness local talent and provide economic benefits through job creation and upskilling.
HS2 Ltd emphasises the opportunities arising from this project, with upcoming procurement packages expected to open avenues for local businesses. These packages are crucial to completing the supply chain required for the station’s construction, providing a platform for regional economic growth and community engagement. The project is not only a feat of engineering but also a catalyst for regional economic stimulation, paving the path for future projects.
The commencement of piling works at Birmingham Curzon Street station marks a pivotal progression in its construction, promising significant regional impact.
