HS2 Advances Major Viaduct Slide over UK Motorway

HS2 has reopened the M6 motorway near Birmingham, UK, ahead of schedule following a major engineering operation to position part of a new viaduct. The weekend project involved sliding a 230-metre-long section of the East Deck into place above the motorway, using an innovative ‘fully restrained’ technique. This method allowed part of the work to be carried out while traffic continued below, reducing disruption. The operation is part of a phased plan to install twin viaducts that will carry HS2 high-speed rail services between London and Birmingham.

The work was carried out by main contractor BBV, supported by specialist steelwork company Victor Buyck Steel Construction. The project required careful coordination with National Highways and nearby stakeholders to minimise impact. The viaduct, weighing thousands of tonnes, was moved using strand jacks and non-stick sliding pads in a highly controlled process, with both carriageways reopening 9.5 hours earlier than planned.

“This is a major feat of engineering over a vital section of the UK’s transport infrastructure, so to be able to reopen the road early is a fantastic achievement. These viaducts will be pivotal to the HS2 network, carrying high speed trains over the M6 and creating better journeys for people for many years to come.” said Caroline Warrington, HS2 Ltd’s Head of Delivery.

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