Advising on groundborne noise and vibration for the longest tunnels on the HS2
The Chiltern Tunnels are a set of twin bore tunnels 16km long that form part of the Central 1 section of HS2 Phase one. They are the longest tunnels of the HS2, carrying the railway line under the Chiltern Hills northwest of London.
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Services provided
The Challenge
Our client required a team to advise on all technical aspects associated with groundborne noise and vibration during sub-surface tunnel construction activities.
Our Approach
Our team of experts:
- Conducted screening risk assessments.
- Performed detailed finite difference modelling of vibration propagation through the chalk strata from the use of Tunnel Boring Machines (TBMs) and from activities involved in the construction of cross passages.
- Assisted with community and local authority engagement activities prior to the arrival of the TBMs at sensitive receptors overlying the tunnels.
The Outcome
RWDI has completed comprehensive on-site surveys of both groundborne noise and vibration at numerous locations to determine prediction confidence levels and re-calibrate predictions. Sites surveyed have included residential communities, listed buildings, commercial and office premises, and a large hospital.