HS2’s Burton Green tunnel now 'structurally complete'
By James Smith 15th Jul 2026
HS2 engineers have installed the final roof segment on the 700-metre-long Burton Green tunnel and have declared it now "structurally complete".
Engineers and ecologists will now turn their attention towards the tunnel's 500-metre-long 'green roof', to ensure the structure "blends seamlessly into the natural landscape".
The 16-metre-wide twin-box-shaped tunnel will carry high-speed trains, with an internal wall separating trains going north and south.
Doug Barnett, Senior Project Manager for HS2 Ltd, said: "With the main civil engineering complete, thanks to the hard work and dedication of the 150-strong team on the ground, we can now begin the next phase of this exciting project.
"We look forward to working with local communities to bring the bold design vision for Burton Green tunnel to life, maximising the potential of this new green space."
Once fully complete, the Kenilworth Greenway will be reinstated close to its original alignment.
It will run above the new tunnel to provide a link from Balsall Common to Kenilworth, via Burton Green, for walkers, cyclists and horse-riders.
Excavated material from the tunnel is currently being reused for wider landscaping works.
Rupert Blake, Project Manager for BBV, said: "The structural completion of Burton Green tunnel is a huge moment for BBV and our supply chain partners, who've worked tirelessly over the last five years to get us here.
"A range of construction techniques have been used to deliver this complex engineering project, showcasing the team's skill, expertise and resilience.
"The next step is to install a 500-metre green roof on top of the structure, so it integrates into the natural landscape."
BBV's civil engineering team is now working on the final elements of the tunnel, including the escape walkway to the south of the tunnel, and the application of fire-proof protection to the upper tunnel walls.
Cromwell Lane, which links both sides of the village, was temporarily diverted during the construction.
Works here are being extended to the end of October.
In October, following the completion of utilities works, it will reopen on its original realignment.
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