The Thame Valley Viaduct crosses the flood plain of the River Thame, just outside Aylesbury. It will carry HS2 trains at speeds of up to 225mph (360km/h) between London and Birmingham.
The low lying viaduct will carry the high speed rail line just 3m above the flood plain beside Aylesbury in Buckinghamshire. It will be constructed in an entirely modular fashion with four main precast concrete components that are repeated across its 36, 25m long spans. These components are 68 piers, 72 box girder beams, 1,165 deck planks and 720 parapets. All fabricated by Pacadar UK at London Thamesport.
This method has the potential to enhance safety, efficiency, and quality while also decreasing carbon emissions, compared to conventional practices. Designers involved in the process anticipate that it may become a more prevalent technique for constructing rail viaducts in the UK. It is designed to ensure trains will be able to continue running even during heavy rain and flooding, making it climate resilient.
Installation/completed photos used under permission with thanks to HS2
