Reducing the impact of diverting a 42-inch water main

High Speed Two (HS2) intersects utility company networks throughout its length. Utility works are an important factor when planning and carrying out infrastructure projects, and similar diversionary works are likely to be required during Phase Two of HS2. This paper seeks to share examples of good practice and lessons learnt in the design and construction of the diversion that are particularly relevant to reducing the impact of major utility works in urban environments. One of the key developments explored in this paper is the use of a boltless ductile iron pipe system, which saved hundreds of hours of confined space working and ensured smaller excavations and work sites could be used, minimising the impact of the works on stakeholders. The use of this system on this project was a first for TWUL.