Thursday 28th April 2011

Reuse of the Connaught Tunnel

Crossrail has unveiled plans to reuse the Connaught Tunnel in East London.

Originally built in 1878, the currently disused Connaught Tunnel is 550m long and was constructed using the ‘cut and cover’ method, i.e. excavating a trench then roofing it over.

The tunnel was formerly part of the ‘North Woolwich line’ but closed to passenger traffic in December 2006. Because it has been out of use for several years, a significant amount of work will be needed to refurbish the tunnel in order for it to accommodate Crossrail trains.

Sections of the existing tunnel are in a poor structural condition. Around 100 metres of tunnel wall will be removed and replaced with a new tunnel lining. The existing brick arches, part of the tunnel approaches, will be retained and repaired. It will cost around £50m to get the tunnel into a fit state so that tracks and an electricity supply can be put in.