Congratulations to our Align JV constructing the C1 section of HS2, who won TechFest Best Use of Technology in the Site Productivity category.
HS2 is one of the largest and most challenging infrastructure projects ever undertaken in the UK. Our Align JV team is delivering two of the most complicated parts; a 3.4km viaduct (the UK's longest) and a 16.04km twin-bored tunnel (HS2’s longest) with five ventilation shafts.
The team has been systematically employing technological innovations, such as leveraging the use of real-time data and providing adequate tools and training to our teams. As a result, they’ve significantly streamlined construction, boosting productivity for HS2 and creating a benchmark to drive the civil engineering and construction industry forward. The team’s outstanding efforts also demonstrate how innovative use of technology also improves environmental impact, human aspects, and quality.
The TechFest awards celebrate the best use of technological advancements and innovation in various sectors. The Site Productivity category recognises teams using technology to improve productivity when delivering on-site projects.
A very comprehensive entry which clearly articulates the way in which HS2 has put data, technology and productivity at the heart of its delivery strategy from the outset. The productivity gains have been demonstrated through an impressive array of data, and the ambition for a learning legacy is entirely appropriate for a project of this scale and national importance.
The judges comments
Nick Podevyn, Sir Robert McAlpine Innovation & Improvement Manager, added:
“Productivity and digital transformation are two significant themes in the construction industry so it is hugely satisfying to receive industry recognition for the efforts we have made at HS2. We are driven by our Joint Venture values of excellence, collaboration, safety, integrity and respect and our strategic intent to productionise the construction site using appropriate technological innovations. The project team, in collaboration with the supply chain, have worked tirelessly to implement new technologies and improve site productivity using lean methodologies and this award is testament to their hard work.”
This achievement not only highlights our team's dedication to excellence but also positions us as leaders in adopting cutting-edge solutions to drive efficiency and success.
Belinda Smart, Deputy Editor of New Civil Engineer, commented:
“The winners of this year’s TechFest Awards are a source of inspiration. Their efforts show that technological and digital innovation continue to break new ground in construction and engineering, driving solutions to some of today’s most pressing challenges and positioning industry and the wider community for a better future."
From the pioneering railways and viaducts of the Victorian era constructed by our founder, we continue to build on our legacy of infrastructure projects with the delivery of today’s essential highway and rail networks.
The close of work on the tunnel's vent shafts brings an end to a project our Align JV began almost five years ago
As 2025 draws to a close, we explore key milestones, partnerships, innovative solutions and award-winning projects shaping the future of sustainable engineering and construction.
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Administration Apprentice, Maisie Woods, a resident of Bridgwater, is amongst the ten apprentices employed by Sir Robert McAlpine currently working at Agratas
