High Speed 2 (HS2) is one of the UK’s most significant and complex infrastructure projects, developed to deliver a high-speed rail network connecting London with the West Midlands. The scheme is designed to increase capacity, reduce congestion on the West Coast Main Line, and enhance connectivity between major cities. With approximately 140 miles of new railway infrastructure, HS2 demands robust, durable and high-performance engineering solutions capable of operating under intensive and challenging conditions.

Within the Crackley to Beechwood section, located near Kenilworth and Burton Green, a critical retaining wall was required to support a cut slope and facilitate the construction of the Burton Green Tunnel South Portal Building. Paul Mulcair, acting as the installation contractor, engaged Maccaferri following the specification issued by Balfour Beatty Vinci (BBV), which called for double twisted hexagonal mesh gabions with a PVC coating over galvanised wire.

Given the proximity to the HS2 alignment, the structure would be subject to increased dynamic loading, frequent vibration and long-term environmental exposure. As a result, a more advanced and resilient solution was required to ensure long-term performance and reliability. The retaining wall extended approximately 164 metres in length, with varying heights ranging from 1.5 metres to 4.0 metres, placing significant demands on structural integrity and durability.