UK Power Networks has completed work to move high-voltage underground cables to make way for the Silvertown Tunnel.
The tunnel that passes beneath the River Thames connects Silvertown and the Greenwich Peninsula, easing congestion from the nearby Blackwall Tunnel, improving air quality and allowing better cross-river public transport.
UK Power Networks worked on two cable diversion projects with Riverlinx CJV on the north and south sides of the river to facilitate the construction of the tunnel.
On the north side of the river, the project team laid 700m of 66,000V cables made from environmentally friendly cross-linked polyethylene (XPLE), adding an additional 150m to the route, while decommissioning four existing circuits.
On the south side, two 132,000V circuits and nine 11,000V circuits were temporarily moved. After the construction was completed, UK Power Networks replaced the old cables with XLPE in their original positions.
The Riverlinx CJV (Construction Joint Venture) is contracted by Riverlinx, who is a concessionaire on behalf of TfL, to complete the Silvertown Tunnel by April.
Claire Sheridan, UK Power Networks’ Portfolio Manager for London, says, “Working together on the Silvertown Tunnel project has been a testament to our commitment to improving the City of London.
“The efforts of our engineers and partners have helped us overcome numerous challenges, ensuring the successful completion of cable diversion projects on both sides of the River Thames. This project not only enhances the city’s infrastructure but also contributes to a better environment and public transport system.
“Collaborative working has been essential in moving high-voltage underground cables to make way for the Silvertown Tunnel. This project is a significant step towards improving transport in London by easing congestion, improving air quality and enhancing cross-river public transport. Despite the challenges, our team has successfully laid environmentally friendly cables and decommissioned existing circuits to support the construction of the tunnel.”
Borja Trashorras, Project Director, Riverlinx CJV, says, “The Riverlinx CJV joint venture has delivered the Silvertown Tunnel project on time, to budget and at the highest standard of delivery and engineering. Our collaborative approach with TfL and Riverlinx SPV has enabled us to leverage international expertise from our three partners: Ferrovial through its construction division, BAM and SK ecoplant. The construction here has included advanced engineering techniques with world firsts for a Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) of this size, exemplifying our commitment to excellence and innovation. To have delivered this project in five years despite all of the recent world challenges is truly exceptional. I congratulate our team, everything we have achieved, and the positive legacy we leave not only for London but also for our industry.”