HS2 starts first M-shaped cut and cover tunnels

French engineering specialist Matière has started installing the first of five planned ‘green’ cut and cover tunnels on the HS2 project.
HS2 engineers have adopted a twin arch ‘M’ shape structure design, which is more efficient than the standard box structure, reducing the amount of concrete used.
Segments are being manufactured offsite in a factory in Derbyshire for the 2.5km Chipping Warden green tunnel in Northamptonshire.
This lighter-weight modular approa