HS2 Enabling Works Contract (North)

Ramboll’s contribution spanned the full spectrum of engineering consultancy services, from highways and bridges to ecology, forming the backbone of early works delivery to support the main HS2 construction phase.

Ramboll provided a wide range of integrated services including detailed and scheme design of highways, bridges, geotechnics, utilities, traffic systems, drainage and flood modelling. The team also delivered environmental services, including ecology surveys, land remediation, and built heritage assessments. These multidisciplinary services were aligned under a single digital framework to ensure consistency and efficiency.

A standout example of Ramboll’s contribution is the design and successful installation of a new bridge to carry the realigned A452 over the M42 motorway. Developed from scheme to detailed design, the project emphasised off-site manufacture and innovative construction techniques.

Precast concrete shells were used for abutments, and the superstructure was built offline and installed over a single weekend using self-propelled modular transporters. The approach reduced disruption to motorway traffic and enhanced site safety and quality. The bridge will improve road access to the new HS2 Birmingham Interchange Station and includes new pedestrian and cyclist facilities previously unavailable.

Ramboll was the first contractor to deliver full BIM requirements to HS2 standards, helping to shape more efficient delivery approaches through direct engagement with HS2. Digital innovations included automated CAD data harvesting, dynamic links between CDM risk registers and clash detection tools, as well as integration with Calendula for design risk management. These approaches ensured digital compliance and enhanced quality control.

At the end of the detailed design phase, Ramboll had achieved embedded carbon savings of 32.6% compared to the original baseline, showcasing the impact of low-carbon design thinking and off-site manufacturing. The project also fostered a close and efficient working relationship between Ramboll, WSP, Laing O’Rourke and Murphy creating a model of collaborative delivery in large-scale infrastructure.