HS2 begins construction of final deep tunnel on London–Birmingham route

High Speed Two (HS2) has entered a decisive new phase as tunnelling officially began on the final deep-level section of the route into central London. The first of two tunnel boring machines has started its 4.5-mile drive from Old Oak Common toward Euston, marking a critical step in completing the high-speed railway’s London terminus.

The launch was carried out at the underground station box at Old Oak Common, where ministers and HS2 executives activated the 1,624-tonne machine. Once complete, the twin-bore Euston Tunnel will carry trains travelling at up to 200 mph, forming the final underground link on the 140-mile route between London and Birmingham.

The tunnel is the fifth and last deep twin-bore tunnel on the HS2 network and will complete a total of 27.5 miles of deep tunnelling. Construction follows the completion of earlier sections beneath the Chilterns, Long Itchington Wood, and Bromford. Engineers expect the TBM to advance at an average rate of around 16 metres per day, installing precast concrete lining rings as excavation progresses.

All excavated material will be conveyed to the Willesden Euro Terminal logistics hub and transported by rail for reuse on infrastructure and landscaping projects elsewhere in the UK, removing more than 70,000 lorry movements from London roads.

Beyond its engineering significance, the Euston connection is central to wider regeneration plans. Independent studies commissioned by Camden Council estimate redevelopment around Euston could contribute up to £41 billion to the UK economy by 2053 and support more than 34,000 jobs.