HS2 Marks Bromford Tunnel Milestone

HS2 Ltd has completed the first bore of the 3.5-mile Bromford Tunnel between Warwickshire and Birmingham, marking what it says is a major milestone for the project. Tunnel boring machine Mary Ann, launched in July 2023, has broken through at Washwood Heath after excavating the route beneath roads, rivers and critical utilities, including four crossings under the River Tame.

The machine removed around one million tonnes of spoil, which is being reused to support construction of the nearby Delta Junction. The tunnelling work was carried out by a 450-strong team from Balfour Beatty VINCI, working in shifts over 652 days. A second machine, Elizabeth, is currently boring the parallel tunnel and is expected to complete its drive later this year.

“Today’s breakthrough is a significant milestone for the project and I’m immensely proud of the men and women who have worked day and night to bring Mary Ann and her crew home safely. Washwood Heath is set to become one of the most important sites on the entire HS2 network – the point at which the railway will be operated, controlled and maintained.” said Mark Wild, HS2 Ltd’s Chief Executive.

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