The latest progress on HS2 highlights the scale, complexity, and capability now being mobilised across the UK’s high-speed rail programme.
Preparations are underway to launch the next section of the M6 South viaduct, a critical piece of infrastructure that will carry high-speed trains towards Birmingham. On 11 April, the first 107-metre segment of the west deck – a 1,250-tonne weathering steel structure – will be slid into position over the M6 junction 4 southbound slip road.
Using a precision hydraulic jacking system, the structure will be carefully moved 102 metres across concrete piers and locked into place in an operation expected to take just two days. The work is being delivered by Balfour Beatty VINCI, HS2’s construction partner in the West Midlands.
This latest milestone builds on the successful installation of the parallel east deck in 2025, including a UK-first achievement where the viaduct was slid into position while traffic continued to flow on the motorway below — demonstrating both engineering innovation and a commitment to minimising disruption.
The west deck presents additional technical challenges. Unlike the east deck, which was installed in three stages, the west deck must be assembled in four sections due to space constraints, the curvature of the loop road, and the staggered positioning of the abutments. These factors require a shorter launch platform and even greater precision in delivery.
A 45-strong team is now finalising preparations for the launch, including the installation of the ‘launching nose’ that will guide the structure, and the assembly of the propulsion system of cables and hydraulic jacks that will enable the controlled slide into position.
Beyond the engineering achievement, this milestone reflects the strength of collaboration across the supply chain, including close working with National Highways to minimise disruption to road users.
It also highlights the development of new talent within the sector. Engineers such as Russell Luckhurst, who is leading the works at just 28, demonstrate the depth of capability being built through the project — and the opportunity to develop the next generation of infrastructure leaders. Russell, said:
“Building on the success of installing the East deck viaduct last year, we’re gearing up for the first launch of the neighbouring West deck in April.
“We’re using the same sliding technique, where a giant hydraulic jack will push the viaduct across the motorway in multiple stages throughout the year. The previous launches provided the team with invaluable experience, which they’re eager to apply to future works on this eye-catching structure spanning the M6.
For our members and the wider sector, this progress underlines the importance of maintaining delivery momentum — not only to retain and grow critical skills, but to unlock wider economic growth, strengthen supply chains, and deliver long-term value across the UK economy.