HS2 successfully slid a 4,500-tonne deck for the Small Dean viaduct near Wendover. The feat took four days, finishing ahead of schedule showing commitment.
This deck is for the Small Dean viaduct, which will be 345 meters long. It’s one of 50 big viaducts on HS2. HS2 aims for faster trips between cities and to free space on the West Coast Main Line.
The deck has concrete and steel. Workers assembled it before the move, installing most concrete slabs early, which made the slide heavier but will save time later.
The A413 road reopened early, by 8:30 pm on January 31st, nine hours ahead of schedule.
Jason Bicknell, working for HS2, described it as an amazing feat requiring years of preparation. He thanked everyone involved, noting they beat their summer 2025 target.
The team spent four years prepping, moving utilities, realigning the road, and building the supports. They then assembled the deck.
Now, they will lower the deck 60cm onto bearings, which will hold the viaduct’s weight.
This viaduct is special, with HS2 above ground there. The underside is six meters above the road, supported by Y-shaped piers.
EKFB is building the viaduct for HS2. Martin Gamble, also from EKFB, said the team worked hard for years. The road and railway made it tricky, requiring collaboration with Network Rail and the council to minimize disruption.
HS2 will realign the road under the viaduct. Landscaping will manage height changes affecting the road, paths, railway, and viaduct.
