Clearing the Path for High-Speed Rail: BBV Finalizes Massive 183-Meter Bridge Overhaul

Saltley Viaduct reconstruction is being prepared by HS2 for new high-speed rail services. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

According to HS2, the existing bridge is around two miles northeast of Birmingham city centre. It spans a 183-metre section of the B4114. Also, the road will close to vehicles and pedestrians from 10 May. A four-stage demolition programme will follow.

The replacement structure will be two metres higher than the current viaduct. This will provide the clearance needed for the high-speed railway to be built below.

The reconstruction will take place in stages. It is expected to last up to 18 months. HS2’s construction partner Balfour Beatty VINCI (BBV) is leading the programme.

Saltley Viaduct reconstruction and local diversions

Both demolition and construction have been planned to limit closures and disruption. The planning covers the Birmingham and Derby line. Also, it covers the Birmingham and Warwick Junction Canal and the River Rea.

Saltley Viaduct is the second major road bridge to be rebuilt for the project. The bridge is in the Saltley, Washwood Heath and Nechells area. A network area beneath the viaduct has already been rerouted. Engineers are now finalising preparations before work begins.

The recently opened Aston Church Road overbridge will be key to the diversion route. It is now open to vehicles and pedestrians.

HS2 Ltd and BBV have worked with Birmingham City Council. They have also worked with Transport for the West Midlands. This coordination took place throughout planning. In addition, that work included safe and effective diversion routes. The routes cover travel by public transport, private vehicle, or on foot.

Victoria Roberts, HS2’s Senior Engagement and Interface Lead for the West Midlands, said:
We thank local communities for their patience ahead of this next stage of construction works and ask people to familiarise themselves with the approved diversion routes that will be put in place.

As some bus services will be rerouted, we’ve worked closely with Transport for West Midlands to ensure additional temporary stops and extra services will be put in place.

If you live or work in the area, please check before you travel and allow extra time for your journey.

Rail and canal changes during the works

The first phase will change rail services between Birmingham and Derby. The changes cover two weekends: 6-7 June and 13–14 June. During this period, engineers will demolish the former Aston Church Road overbridge. They will also remove the section of Saltley Viaduct directly above the railway line.

The remaining east and west sections of Saltley Viaduct will then be demolished. These sections cross the River Rea and the Birmingham and Warwick Junction Canal. The canal will close to narrowboats and pedestrians from 14th July-17th August. The closure applies between Roving Bridge 97 and the M6 Viaduct at Salford Junction. It will remain in place while work takes place.

A pontoon will be installed to support access during the works. Also, HS2 has worked with the Canal & River Trust. The work is to communicate the planned diversion route via the Birmingham and Fazeley Canal. The route uses Aston Locks.

How the new bridge will be installed?

The new bridge superstructure will be installed in sections. Two construction methods will be used. The span over the railway line will be fabricated on site. It will then be moved into position by a Self-Propelled Modular Transporter. The Self-Propelled Modular Transporter is a heavy-lift platform vehicle.

This approach is intended to reduce installation time. Also, it is intended to allow sections to be pre-assembled away from the structure. Space is limited there. The rest of the deck will then be completed in stages. Cranes will lift the remaining steelwork into place.

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