Network Rail’s Stockley flyover project reached an important milestone towards the end of 2015, when the final concrete beam, used to support the construction of a second ramp on the site, was lifted into place. This second ramp follows the successful completion of the first section of the Stockley flyover project.
The scheme – which is being constructed in Stockley, Hillingdon – is being implemented to ensure that Crossrail and Heathrow Express services heading towards central London will be able to join the Great Western Main Line without delay. The flyover ensures that the services will not delay, or be delayed by, other trains using the route.
The first section of the flyover came into use for Heathrow Connect services at the end of 2014. This was soon followed by the creation of a second ramp, which will be used by Heathrow Express trains.
146 beams were installed on the second ramp; each weighing around 40 tonnes – more than three times the weight of a London bus. In total, more than 5,000 tonnes of precast concrete have been installed since the first beam was lifted in May 2015.
Work on the project was carried out around an operating railway and took place at night in order to avoid disruption to train services. Such was the success of the planned programme, that it was completed ahead of schedule.
Crossrail’s Surface Director, Matthew White, said:
“Putting in place so many heavy beams, so close to a running railway is no mean feat. Once the flyover is fully open it will help to provide great links between Heathrow and central London and contribute to London’s continued presence as a modern world-class city.”
Crossrail’s Programme Director at Network Rail, Matthew Steele, said:
“To complete this element of the work six weeks ahead of schedule, safely and with minimal impact on passengers is a great achievement. There is still a lot of work to be done, and we will now focus on completing the second section of the flyover, ready for Heathrow Express services.”
Once the route to the west of London fully opens in 2019, TfL-run Crossrail will significantly improve links between Heathrow and the capital’s main commercial and financial districts – the West End, the City and Canary Wharf. Passengers will be able to catch one train all the way through central London from Heathrow, reaching Bond Street in 26 minutes and Canary Wharf in 40 minutes.
For further information about Crossrail or the Stockley flyover, please visit: www.crossrail.co.uk.
