HS2 engineers have reopened a 1.5-mile stretch of the Grand Union Canal following the successful installation of a 130-metre steel bridge. The complex operation, which began on Wednesday, March 4, was completed seven days ahead of schedule.
The project involved sliding the 1,620-tonne bridge deck across a country road, the canal, and a towpath near Ufton in Warwickshire. Employing the proven “skid shoe methodology,” the team completed the maneuver in just two days.
Two massive hydraulic jacks pushed the steel structure forward at speeds up to ten metres per hour. Specialist pads coated with a Teflon-like material minimized friction, allowing the deck to glide smoothly into position.
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The weathering steel viaduct, supported by two abutments and two piers on either side, was then carefully lowered and securely fixed into place by 7 p.m. on Thursday, March 5, marking the operation’s completion.
This milestone follows more than two and a half years of preparation and construction led by Balfour Beatty VINCI (BBV), HS2’s construction partner. At peak activity, up to 40 workers were involved, installing 34 piles reaching depths of 30 metres and casting two concrete piers aligned parallel to the canal to enhance its visual appeal for users.
The project also included building two abutments and assembling 37 precast planks that form the bridge deck’s foundation. Additionally, a new retaining wall was constructed from seven-metre-deep sheet piles topped with concrete. This replaced the original century-old ‘wash wall’ and soft bank to ensure long-term structural stability of the canal.
Harry Toase, Balfour Beatty VINCI’s civil engineering lead, praised his team’s meticulous work and attention to protecting the canal and the adjacent Grade II listed bridge. “I’m delighted that we completed the project a week ahead of schedule and extend thanks to the local community for their patience,” he said.
Vicki Lee, Senior Project Manager at HS2 Ltd, acknowledged the progress made over the past year, including the completion of the Long Itchington Wood Tunnel and the Longhole viaduct slide. She noted that while significant strides have been made, much work remains on the embankments and cuttings before track and power installations can begin.