HS2 installs first span of new Saltley Viaduct in Birmingham

HS2 engineers have completed a major milestone in the construction of the new Saltley Viaduct in Birmingham. During the August Bank Holiday weekend, the first 55-metre-long steel span was successfully installed over the Birmingham to Derby railway line.

The new, taller structure is being built to replace the original viaduct, which was demolished following its closure to traffic and pedestrians. The replacement is designed to allow high-speed trains to pass safely beneath it while accommodating the future HS2 route. The project also aims to improve facilities for motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians.

Delivered by construction partner Balfour Beatty VINCI (BBV) in coordination with Network Rail, the operation involved moving the assembled section approximately 125 metres into position using self-propelled modular transporters (SPMTs). The work was conducted during a planned rail closure, with services returning to normal on Tuesday morning. Following the completion of this first phase, engineers are moving toward the next stage, which involves assembling a second 35-metre-long span.