Key steps in the construction of the Main Onshore Pipeline (the Pipeline) are being taken this week, as United Infrastructure (UI) and its tunnelling subcontractor, Joseph Gallagher Limited (JGL), started microtunnelling operations beneath the M53.
Microtunnelling is a trenchless tunnelling technique that will bury the Pipeline deep beneath the ground, ensuring minimal disruption to key infrastructure, transport routes and environmentally sensitive areas.
The operations take place underground and require working 24-hours a day to ensure the safety of the tunnel and construction team.
For the M53 crossing, these works are due to take place over five days from the week commencing 8 December 2025 and ending week commencing 15 December 2025.
Mitigation measures
We are committed to minimising disruption and protecting local communities throughout our operations. These mitigation measures will be in place throughout the works:
Noise and vibration
Surface noise and vibration levels are expected to be low due to the tunnelling works taking place deep beneath the ground. They will also be kept to as low as reasonably possible and in accordance with BS 5228-1:2014, a British Standard that provides a code of practice for noise and vibration control on construction and open sites. In addition to this, further mitigation measures include:
- Acoustic barriers, screens or covers to limit noise levels.
- 24-hour noise monitoring to notify the Site Manager if noise levels increase so immediate action can be taken to reduce noise levels.
Temporary on-site lighting
Temporary on-site lighting will be required throughout the microtunnelling works to maintain safe working conditions and ensure the security of the compound and equipment.
All temporary on-site lighting will be kept to a minimum and carefully positioned to only focus on the construction area and away from sensitive areas such as homes.
Traffic and vehicle movements
All traffic and vehicle movements will be limited to the core working hours:
- 8am to 6pm – Monday to Friday
- 8am to 1pm – Saturday
- No work on Sundays or bank holidays
If you have any questions or concerns about the works underneath the M53, please email the project team at hello@hynethub.co.uk or call the project phoneline at 0113 395 4495.