Inside HS2 Meet London's tunnelling miners

The article delves into the lives of miners working on London’s High Speed Two (HS2) project, focusing on their experiences and the operation of tunnel boring machines (TBMs) deep underground. Miners like Graham and Liam Clark share their stories, revealing how the profession often runs in families, with many young workers following in their fathers' footsteps. The article highlights the camaraderie among miners and the rewarding nature of their challenging jobs, where shifts can last between seven to twelve hours. Michael Greiner, head of tunneling at SCS JV, discusses the varied geological conditions faced during the project, which can lead to unexpected complications. For instance, the team encountered sandy ground beneath Ruislip Rugby Club, creating concerns among local residents.

HS2's head of delivery, James Leeming, notes that much of the tunneling work goes unnoticed by those living above, despite being just meters beneath their homes. As the Northolt tunnels near completion, the success of these operations is seen as vital for the upcoming Euston section. The article effectively highlights the intersection of engineering, community, and the hidden labor that supports major infrastructure projects.