What is the Greatworth Tunnel on HS2?

The Greatworth Tunnel is HS2's longest "green" tunnel, measuring 1.7 miles and constructed using a cut-and-cover method.

How will the Greatworth Tunnel protect the landscape?

The "green" tunnel design is excavated and covered with greenery after construction, aiming to blend into the rural landscape and reduce visual disruption.

What improvements were made for the Greatworth Tunnel construction?

Engineers applied lessons learned from the Chipping Warden Tunnel to increase productivity and accelerate the assembly of the Greatworth Tunnel's concrete segments.

Home / Business and Economy / HS2 Tunnel Milestone: Greatworth Tunnel Advances

HS2 Tunnel Milestone: Greatworth Tunnel Advances

10 Dec

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Summary

Greatworth Tunnel, 1.7 miles long, is HS2's longest "green" tunnel.
A local road realignment marks a major step forward in construction.
Lessons from Chipping Warden Tunnel improved productivity and speed.

HS2 Tunnel Milestone: Greatworth Tunnel Advances

The construction of HS2's Greatworth Tunnel, set to be the longest "green" tunnel on the line at 1.7 miles, has achieved a major advancement. The realignment of a local road has cleared the way for the next critical phase of excavation for this significant structure in south Northamptonshire.

Engineers are employing a cut-and-cover method, assembling the tunnel from precast concrete segments in an "M" shape. This approach, refined by lessons from the similar Chipping Warden Tunnel, has led to increased productivity and accelerated progress, with 0.6 miles already assembled. This progress allows for the reopening of roads and further community connections.

The Greatworth Tunnel is part of HS2's broader objective to improve journeys between London and Birmingham and enhance capacity on existing rail lines. While the overall project faces timeline uncertainties, this specific tunnel’s construction is progressing through the winter months, aiming to blend into the landscape and reduce local disruption.