HS2 Completes First Six Underground Platforms at Old Oak Common

HS2 has completed the first six of Old Oak Common station's 14 platforms, marking a major construction milestone for the UK's high-speed rail project. The six underground platforms, each 450 metres long, sit within the station box at the west London site and are now ready for interior fit-out.

Construction was led by the Balfour Beatty Vinci SYSTRA joint venture, with subcontractor Expanded installing 1,946 precast concrete slabs -- each weighing 4-5 tonnes -- since work began in April 2025.

When complete, Old Oak Common will have 14 platforms in total: six underground platforms for HS2 services and eight surface-level platforms serving the Elizabeth line, Great Western Main Line and Heathrow Express. The station is set to become the 42nd stop on the Elizabeth line, giving passengers access to more than 100 destinations from a single interchange.

Next steps include fitting staff and equipment rooms, installing lifts and escalators, and finishing floors. Two tunnel boring machines launched from the station box earlier this year are expected to reach Euston in 2027, continuing HS2's push toward its central London terminus.