British engineering specialist Keltbrays has bagged a contract to provide key structural elements of the first two ventilation shafts for the Chiltern tunnels section.
The company will offer construction services for the first two ventilation shafts and head houses on HS2’s first two giant tunnel drives at Chalfont St Peter as well as Chalfont St Giles.
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These shafts will offer ventilation and emergency access to the tunnels, stretching ten miles in length, under the Chiltern Hills.
Keltbrays will offer the services on behalf of the Align Joint Venture, which is executing the Central 1 portion of HS2 Phase 1.
Keltbray director of Strategic Engineering Tim Lohmann said: “Keltbray is delighted to have secured this major package of rail infrastructure works with the Align JV to deliver on this important opportunity for HS2.
“The tunnels form part of the HS2 network that will help connect the country, create thousands of jobs and rebalance the UK economy.”
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By GlobalDataScope of Keltbrays’ contract includes excavation and substructure construction of Head House buildings, along with internal shaft construction to construct slip-formed concrete cores and lining walls.
The company will also be responsible for reinforced concrete works at the shafts’ base.
Its aim is to build a collar, helping the TBMs to pass through the base of the shaft.
The first shaft has been excavated to a depth of 78m near the village of Chalfont St Peter and is ready for Keltbray to commence work.
It will be topped with a head house, which is inspired by barns and other agricultural buildings in proximity.
Shaft will reach down to the twin tunnels below ground level.
Fans and other equipment will be installed to help regulate air quality and temperature, offer access for maintenance and emergency services, as well as remove smoke in case of a fire.
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These shafts will offer ventilation and emergency access to the ten-mile-long tunnels under the Chiltern Hills. Credit: Peter H from Pixabay
