HS2 & Birmingham: Future of UK Rail, HS2 Exhibition Insights

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Introduction

An exhibition showcasing Birmingham’s railway history and future, in partnership with HS2, has opened at Thinktank science museum as part of the Railway 200 celebrations.

The Railway 200 Celebrations

HS2 and Thinktank, Birmingham’s science museum, have launched an exhibition as part of the nationwide ‘Railway 200’ celebrations. The exhibition, which opened on Saturday 27 September, commemorates 200 years since the birth of modern railways. The opening date marked the anniversary of the first passenger train journey along the Stockton and Darlington Railway.

Historical Context

Visitors can explore the construction of the Kilsby Tunnel on the original London to Birmingham line. The source notes that, almost 200 years ago, workers spent nearly five years creating the 1.5-mile tunnel using pickaxes and dynamite.

Modern Engineering

The exhibition also highlights the Bromford Tunnel. HS2 engineers completed the first section of the 3.5-mile Bromford Tunnel, which is located between North Warwickshire and Birmingham, in 22 months. An audio-visual experience showcases the work, including the sounds of a 1,600-tonne tunnel boring machine (TBM). Two giant cutter discs from one of HS2’s TBMs are also on display.

Expert Perspectives

Luke Nipen, head of community engagement at HS2 Ltd, stated that Thinktank’s location, directly opposite the site where HS2’s terminus station will be built, enhances the experience. The exhibition also features the experience of Tunnelcraft Pit Boss Steve Rocke, who led the team building the Bromford Tunnel. With 43 years in tunnelling, Steve Rocke is completing his final project before retirement after spending the past three and a half years on HS2.

Education and Future Impact

The exhibition is designed to inspire interest in Britain’s new railway. According to the source, HS2 has created numerous opportunities for young people through education programs, placements, and apprenticeships. Toby Watley, director of collections and estate at Thinktank, noted that the exhibition gives families the chance to learn about rail, from Birmingham’s locomotives to future high-speed journeys.