Balfour Beatty VINCI SYSTRA, in collaboration with their specialist structures contractor Expanded, has successfully completed the excavation of the Old Oak Common station underground box for HS2. The three-year excavation involved removing 1.3 million tonnes of London Clay to create a vast underground structure, equivalent to 300 Olympic-sized swimming pools. The 1500th HS2 apprentice, Miguel, marked the final excavation, highlighting the project's commitment to apprenticeships and skill development.

The completion of the excavation marks a significant milestone in the construction of HS2's new super-hub station in west London. The underground box, with a 1.12-mile fibre-reinforced concrete diaphragm wall, will accommodate high-speed trains. The project has also seen the involvement of over 1,500 apprentices, with Miguel, a civil engineering apprentice, expressing his pride in contributing to such a massive undertaking.

Steve O'Sullivan, Project Director at Balfour Beatty VINCI SYSTRA joint venture, commended the dedication of the team and apprentices, emphasizing the project's role in enhancing connectivity and driving regeneration in the area. The completion of the excavation paves the way for the construction of 450m platforms for HS2 services, further solidifying Old Oak Common station's significance as a vital transport hub.

The project's commitment to sustainability is evident in the responsible sourcing of steel and the reuse of rainwater in concrete production. The excavation process also involved reducing lorry movements on local roads by utilizing conveyors to transport the excavated materials to beneficial reuse sites. Additionally, HS2 has engaged in projects with local artists to reuse the London Clay, promoting community involvement and creativity.

Sam Clark, Head of Delivery for HS2 Ltd, highlighted the progress made in completing the excavation as a significant step towards the construction of high-speed platforms and the station building itself. The Old Oak Common station is expected to have a transformative impact on local and regional connectivity, attracting investment, development, and regeneration to the surrounding area.

The successful completion of the excavation not only signifies a major achievement in the construction of HS2's Old Oak Common station but also underscores the project's commitment to sustainability, skill development, and community engagement.