Long Itchington Wood TBM ‘Dorothy’ Progress Update

What we are doing

Preparatory works for bringing back TBM cutterhead

Tunnelling works are progressing well. The tunnel boring machine (TBM), Dorothy, has so far travelled just over 1000 metres of the total 1600 metres. Preparations are underway to receive Dorothy at the South Portal (Dallas Burston Polo Club end).

We are expecting the TBM to break through into the South Portal approximately early July 2022 following which the front sections of the TBM are planned to be brought back to the North Portal by road. Some of these components will travel in an upright position requiring an open space of 12 metres in height along the proposed route.

It is likely that overhanging branches along the route may need to be pruned and we are liaising with the relevant stakeholders to ensure that they are aware of our intentions. This activity is planned to be carried out in three phases over four working days, under short-term road closures during off-peak (9:30am – 3:30pm) hours only, between Monday 27 June 2022 (near Ufton roundabout) and Thursday 30 June 2022 (A425 Leamington Road, near Dallas Burston Polo Club). We are mindful of the nesting bird season (March – August) and are taking the necessary precautions to ensure that any impact to nesting birds is fully mitigated.

All necessary permits will be in place prior to the planned tree pruning works being undertaken. Also, where necessary, ecological surveys will be conducted prior to and during this activity, as well as having ecologists present during the tree pruning activity.

We are continuing to work with the relevant authorities to ensure that this planned activity is carried out safely and adheres to the necessary protocols.

Download information relating to these works

• Long Itchington Wood TBM ‘Dorothy’ Progress Update

Find out more about

• Warwickshire

If you have a question about HS2 or our works, please contact our HS2 Helpdesk team on 08081 434 434 or email [email protected]