VolkerFitzpatrick, working as part of the Southern Renewal Enterprise (SRE) in collaboration with Network Rail, has completed a 10-week programme of essential repairs to the 175-year-old Blackheath Tunnel bridge.

The work took place between Charlton and Blackheath stations to address long-standing issues with leaks and water damage in the mile-long tunnel, which first opened in 1849. The damage, caused by rainwater seeping through the ground and freezing before thawing, had weakened the brickwork over time.

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Engineers strengthened the ground, repaired the tunnel lining, and carried out detailed structural and ground inspections to protect the tunnel for years to come.

David Davidson, chief operating officer for the South Eastern Railway, said: "Over the last 10-weeks we’ve completed a groundbreaking programme in the tunnel that will improve reliability by strengthening and waterproofing the structure to better protect the railway.

"Savings from this approach are estimated to be around £10 million and this can be reinvested across the network to deliver more improvements that will keep passengers moving."

VolkerFitzpatrick serves as the Building and Civils partner for the Southern Renewals Enterprise, working alongside AtkinsRéalis, Octavius, VolkerRail and Network Rail to deliver the southern region’s £9bn renewals portfolio between 2024 and 2034.