Ferrovial’s UK construction business has won a contract worth around £230m from the National Grid to help upgrade electricity infrastructure.
The Grain to Tilbury electricity upgrade project is scheduled to from early 2025 until the first quarter if 2029.
The project is part of a broader suite of infrastructure upgrades and reinforcements planned by National Grid as part of The Great Grid Upgrade, the largest overhaul of the UK’s electricity network in generations.
It will be delivered by an integrated joint venture between Ferrovial Construction and BEMO (Ferrovial BEMO JV), involving the construction of a new 2.2km long high voltage (400kv) cable tunnel and includes two 35m deep shafts (15m and 12m diameter respectively), headhouses and Cable Sealing End (CSE) compounds.
Ferrovial BEMO JV says it will employ advanced engineering techniques and state-of-the-art technology to ensure the highest standards of safety and efficiency.
One of the solutions to be employed on the scheme is a vertical shaft sinking machine (VSM). The VSM technology allows for simultaneous excavation and installation of the final lining from the surface, significantly reducing construction time, minimizing environmental impact and ensuring the highest level of safety throughout operation.
The VSM can be used under groundwater, making it ideal for the Grain to Tilbury project. This will only be the second time that this method is used in the UK.
A spokesperson for the company said: “Ferrovial Construction’s extensive experience in delivering complex tunnelling projects in the UK positions the company as an industry leader.
“Tunnelling schemes delivered in the UK include the Thames Tideway Tunnel (FLO JV), the Silvertown Tunnel (Riverlinx CJV), Northern Line Extension (FLO JV), and three contracts on the Elizabeth Line (BFK JV) including the longest stretch of tunnel between Royal Oak and Farringdon, as well as Farringdon Station itself.
“The Grain to Tilbury project will further solidify Ferrovial Construction’s presence in the UK market.”
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