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Artist impression Westgate Headhouse.
Artist impression Westgate Headhouse.

Westgate Headhouse

The Westgate Headhouse in Ealing is one of four shafts along the Northolt Tunnel route of HS2.

A ventilation shaft, or vent shaft, is the vertical opening that connects the HS2 tunnels, 35 meters below the surface, to the open air. It regulates air quality and temperature in the tunnel and allows smoke to be extracted in the event of a fire. The headhouse is the building on top of the ventilation shaft which contains fire control systems and the ventilation systems for the railway tunnels below.

 

Headhouse design

The ventilation shaft at Westgate is located on the Chiltern line embankment, fading the boundaries between the building and its surroundings to integrate the architecture and landscape. It is embedded into the Green Corridor; the network of new wildlife habitats, woodlands, and community spaces, helping to leave a lasting legacy along the route.

Landscaping design will include a green roof and a mix of vegetation, which will make it easier for the structure to blend in with the natural environment.

Keeping you informed

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Managing impacts of construction

Managing impacts of construction

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Construction look ahead

Construction look ahead

Read our three-month lookahead for associated work in Brent and Ealing.

Find out what HS2 means for Brent and Ealing

This section provides you with information about HS2 works and developments in your area.

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