HS2: Platform Installation at Old Oak Common: Rail Tech & Future Trends

HS2 Achieves Major Milestone with Platform Installation at Old Oak Common

HS2, the UK’s ambitious high-speed rail project, has marked a significant step forward in its construction with the commencement of passenger platform installation at Old Oak Common station in West London. The first concrete slabs, destined for the platforms that will serve high-speed trains, are now being installed within the underground station box. This crucial development, announced on June 2, 2025, signifies a transition from pure construction to the tangible development of a modern railway system. This article explores the progress made at Old Oak Common, highlighting the technical innovations, industry collaboration, and the strategic importance of this key interchange hub.

Platform Installation: A Technical Overview

Engineers are currently focusing on the installation of pre-cast concrete slabs, the foundational components of six high-speed platforms. Each platform will accommodate trains up to 400 metres in length. The slabs are being constructed in three island-style blocks. The pre-cast concrete slabs, manufactured offsite in Worksop, Nottinghamshire, are supplied by Explore Manufacturing. A total of 1,960 units, each up to 4 metres by 2 metres in size, are meticulously being lifted into position. These slabs are installed on 1.59-metre-high invert walls, a design choice providing structural support while allowing for the integration of essential services such as electricity and communications cabling within the void beneath the platforms. The use of off-site manufacturing demonstrates a commitment to efficient construction techniques and a reliance on British industry expertise. The station’s overall design incorporates provisions for a further eight surface-level platforms, which will service the Great Western Mainline, Elizabeth Line, and Heathrow Express, creating a multimodal transport hub.

Collaboration and Construction at Old Oak Common

The construction of Old Oak Common station is being managed by Balfour Beatty VINCI SYSTRA (BBVS JV), an integrated partnership formed by HS2. BBVS JV commenced permanent works in June 2021. This collaboration brings together specialized expertise, leveraging the strengths of both companies to deliver a complex project of this scale and ambition. The underground station box itself, a critical component of the project, was completed earlier in 2025. The station’s dimensions are substantial, measuring 850 metres in length with a base slab covering 45,000 square metres. The current focus involves completing work above platform level on the ground floor and future superstructure, ensuring seamless integration with the existing and future transport networks. This multi-faceted approach is crucial to establish Old Oak Common as a vital hub, enhancing transport efficiency and connectivity for the London area.

Integration and Network Connectivity

The progress at Old Oak Common is intrinsically linked to the broader HS2 network. Tunneling operations are underway to connect the station to the wider high-speed rail system. This involves the deployment of tunnel boring machines (TBMs) to excavate towards Euston and develop the connections to the Northolt Tunnel. The successful integration of the Old Oak Common station with the HS2 network is essential for the operation of high-speed services. This connectivity is a vital element of the project’s goal to alleviate congestion, reduce journey times, and foster economic growth across the country.

Economic Impact and Future Developments

HS2’s impact extends beyond railway infrastructure, the project is anticipated to provide a £10bn boost to the surrounding area, with the development of 22,000 new homes and nearly 19,000 jobs. The economic implications of the project, alongside its technological and engineering aspects, are significant. The project continues under the leadership of Mark Wild, HS2’s Chief Executive, who is spearheading a comprehensive reset to ensure efficient and cost-effective delivery. This phase of the construction reflects the ongoing commitment to optimize the project’s operations while maximizing benefits for the community and the transportation sector.

Conclusion

The installation of the first passenger platforms at Old Oak Common represents a pivotal moment for HS2, moving the project into its operational phase. This milestone showcases the culmination of years of planning, engineering and collaboration. The construction, employing prefabricated concrete slabs and advanced engineering techniques, highlights the technological innovation central to this project. Furthermore, the emphasis on British industry, through the use of locally manufactured components, underscores the project’s contribution to the national economy. The integrated approach, with simultaneous platform construction and network tunneling, highlights the complexity of the project. While the project is currently subject to strategic review to maximize efficiency, the completion of the platforms reinforces confidence in HS2’s long-term viability. The establishment of Old Oak Common as a significant interchange hub promises to transform rail connectivity, improving the passenger experience and fostering regional economic growth. As HS2 continues to develop, the project will likely reshape railway infrastructure and operations for generations to come.