Advance utility works for the Channel Tunnel Rail Link
Project outline
The brief was to carry out all advance utility works prior to the laying of the permanent way for the new Channel Tunnel Rail Link. This included moving approximately 23km of assorted HP, MP and LP gas mains and twin sludge mains.
The challenge
The project included temporary works design, construction and removal, permanent works procurement, construction, installation and testing, pre-commissioning, and assistance in commissioning of gas and sludge pipelines. Three above ground installations (AGI’s) had to be dismantled and two new AGIs built.
A key challenge was the need to route some pipelines within the Ford Motor Company Land and also Rainham Marshes - a site of special scientific interest owned by the RSPB.
Project delivery and innovation
There were several trenchless crossings where either pipejacking or microtunnelling techniques were used.
23km of pipe rerouting took place within a 21km stretch, between the Purfleet Bypass and Ripple Lane, Barking. For most of this length, the new and old corridor paralleled the London Tilbury and Southend railway line. This railway line was crossed by the diversions in three places.
Safe methods of working were agreed with the railway authorities. All railway-associated work was carried out either during existing possessions or ensuring that Green Zone conditions prevailed so that rail traffic was not disrupted.
Key facts
- 23km of pipe was re-routed between Purfleet and Barking
