HS2 Lawley Middleway Bridge Move: Rail Innovation & Project Success

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Introduction

Balfour Beatty VINCI (BBV) and Mammoet completed the bridge move on Lawley Middleway, part of the HS2 project, ahead of schedule, with the road reopening on August 22, 2025. The steel span was moved using a special skidding system, covering between 18 and 24 meters each night to minimize disruption.

Project Delivery and Timeline

The bridge move operation on the HS2 project was delivered by Balfour Beatty VINCI (BBV) and Mammoet. The move, which commenced on August 15, was completed ahead of schedule, and the road was fully reopened on August 22, 2025. The initial plan was to reopen on August 25.

Engineering and Construction

The steel span was constructed on land next to Digbeth Canal over the last two years. On August 15, 2025, Mammoet rotated the bridge 90 degrees using two self-propelled modular transporters (SPMTs). Subsequently, a skidding system, with a jacking push/pull mechanism, was employed alongside the SPMTs to move the structure into place across Lawley Middleway. This combination of techniques is a first for BBV on the HS2 project.

Key Personnel and Statements

Greg Sugden, HS2’s Head of Delivery for the Curzon Approaches, highlighted the achievement as a culmination of two years of work. Georgios Markakis, Project Manager at Balfour Beatty VINCI, expressed pride in the team’s accomplishment and the early completion of the operation.

Future Developments

The Lawley Middleway bridge is part of the railway’s approach to Birmingham, connecting to Birmingham Curzon Street Station. Over the next 12 months, the project will continue with the second Bromford Tunnel breakthrough, Curzon 2 viaduct move, first Duddeston Junction Viaduct move, reopening of Aston Church Road, demolition of the old Aston Church Road bridge and start of construction of the new Saltley Viaduct.

Conclusion

The bridge move on Lawley Middleway, a key part of the HS2 project, was completed successfully by Balfour Beatty VINCI (BBV) and Mammoet. The operation, which used a skidding system and SPMTs, was finished ahead of schedule. The work is part of the approach to Birmingham Curzon Street Station and is followed by further construction activities over the next 12 months.

Company Summary

Balfour Beatty VINCI (BBV): The main works contractor for the HS2 project in the West Midlands.

Mammoet: The bridge move contractor for the HS2 project.

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