In a significant step forward for the High Speed 2 (HS2) rail project, construction has commenced on a crucial tunnel leading to Euston station. Despite ongoing financial and development challenges regarding the station itself, the tunnelling machine, affectionately named Madeleine, has embarked on its mission. This marks a moment of hope for the UK’s railway future, albeit amid uncertainties that continue to loom over the project’s timeline and funding.
A Historic Launch
The grand launch of the tunnelling machine took place on Tuesday, overseen by Chief Secretary to the Prime Minister, Darren Jones, along with rail minister Lord Hendy. Named in honour of Madeleine Nobbs, a pioneer of women in engineering, the machine will spend the next 18 months excavating a 4.5-mile route from Old Oak Common, which will serve as the initial London hub for HS2 services due to delays at Euston.
Old Oak Common is now poised to operate as the primary terminus, a decision prompted by the suspension of major construction activities at Euston since March 2023. This halt has been attributed to ongoing uncertainties about funding, forcing the project to adapt to the ever-changing landscape of rail infrastructure in the UK.
Funding Challenges and Future Plans
The difficulties surrounding Euston station gained further complexity when former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announced in October 2023 that the project would pivot towards private investment, aiming to save £6.5 billion of taxpayer money. This shift has raised concerns about the viability of the station’s development, as HS2 Ltd will not spearhead the project.
In June 2025, the Labour Government revealed plans to establish a dedicated Euston Delivery Company to oversee the station’s development, signalling a potential path forward through private financing. This shift reflects a broader trend in public infrastructure projects, seeking innovative solutions to financial challenges.
Engineering Marvels at Work
Madeleine, stretching an impressive 190 metres in length, was manufactured by Herrenknecht AG in Germany and reassembled at Old Oak Common. The tunnelling operation will involve a twin-bore tunnel that reaches depths of up to 50 metres. As the machine excavates, it will simultaneously install concrete segments, a testament to modern engineering ingenuity.
“This launch was a brilliant moment for the UK’s railways,” Mr Jones proclaimed, highlighting the importance of improved connectivity for cities across the nation. The initiative aims not only to enhance travel but also to stimulate economic growth, fostering opportunities for trade and social interaction.
Lord Hendy echoed this sentiment, describing the machine as “an engineering marvel” that brings HS2’s vision closer to fruition. His optimism reflects a shared belief that restoring HS2’s trajectory is essential for unlocking its potential to generate jobs and stimulate long-term economic benefits.
Looking Ahead
As HS2 continues to evolve, a revised cost and schedule for the project will be unveiled later this year, following a comprehensive review led by chief executive Mark Wild. The launch of Madeleine serves as a beacon of confidence in the project’s future, with Wild emphasising the importance of delivering HS2 safely and efficiently.
Originally, HS2 was intended to create a high-speed link between Euston and Birmingham, with extensions planned to Manchester and Leeds. However, escalating costs led to significant reductions in scope during the Conservative government. Although the opening of the first phase has been delayed from its initial target of late 2026 to a more tentative window between 2029 and 2033, the commencement of tunnelling offers a glimmer of hope for its eventual completion.
Why it Matters
The initiation of tunnelling for HS2 represents more than just a construction milestone; it embodies the aspirations of a nation eager for enhanced connectivity and economic revitalisation. As the UK grapples with the challenges of modern infrastructure, the journey of HS2 offers insights into the complexities of public investment, engineering ambition, and the relentless pursuit of progress. The outcome of this project will significantly impact future transport policies and economic strategies, shaping the lives of countless individuals across the country.
