Skanska has installed the largest single-span railway bridge in the West Midlands.
The work is part of the HS2 high-speed railway project.
A total of 18 self-propelled modular transporters (SPMTs) drove the 2,600t steel and concrete structure into place.
Skanska pre-assembled the bridge in a compound adjacent to the existing railway lines. The installation period took just under three hours to complete.
‘No mean feat’
Patrick Cawley, director for ‘On Network Works’ for HS2 and Network Rail, said: “Moving this 2,600 tonne bridge into place was no mean feat. The new structure will ensure Britain’s new zero-carbon, high-speed railway HS2 works in harmony with the existing rail routes into the second city.
“Huge amounts of planning and effort went into this complex bridge move. I’d like to pay tribute to all of those who’ve worked so hard to bring this impressive structure to Birmingham’s skyline.”
‘Collaborative approach’
Rosario Barcena, Skanska Rail programme director, said: “This is a significant milestone on the project that will improve connectivity and pave the way for the HS2 route into Birmingham City Centre.
“It’s been a complex project from a design and engineering perspective. But thanks to the collaborative approach, involving Network Rail, HS2, our supply chain and local community, we have achieved this successful outcome.
“I would like to thank all of the teams who have played an integral role in making this happen.”
