A major milestone has been reached on the Harefield Southall Pipeline Diversion project with the launch of TBM "Elizabeth".

J Murphy and Sons launched the tunnel boring machine in line with the project programme.

The work is being delivered on behalf of Cadent.

Murphy's project manager, Mick Boyle, said: "Months of planning and collaborative working with Cadent and HS2 has helped us achieve this milestone. Thanks to the 'one Murphy' ethos we have been able to make good use of the extensive skillset across all parts of the Murphy business which has been pivotal in helping us achieve our goals." 

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The site team have already constructed two shafts using the diaphragm wall technique. A 300 metre long, 1.8 metre diameter tunnel will now be constructed between the shafts using an Iseki tunnel boring machine.

The project has recorded over 235,000 working hours with no lost time injuries (LTIs).

Paul Gallagher, director from tunnelling subcontractor Joseph Gallagher Ltd who is working on the tunnelling aspect of the project, said: " I speak on behalf of the entire Joseph Gallagher group when I say it is with great pride that months of collaborative endeavours, between all parties, has come together to facilitate the launch of 'Elizabeth'." 

Work is ongoing and is due to be completed in October 2019.

(CM/MH)