Crossrail project: managing geotechnical risk on London’s Elizabeth line

Document type: Journal Publication
Author: Mike Black BSc(Hons) MSc CSci CGeol FGS, ICE Publishing
Publication Date: 14/03/2017

  • Abstract

    Understanding the ground and the specific geotechnical risks it presented was critical for successful delivery of Crossrail, the £14·8 billion project to deliver the Elizabeth line east–west railway across London, UK. Focusing specifically on the central tunnelled section, this paper describes the broad geological setting of the scheme and what were initially perceived to be the key geotechnical hazards. It further describes, with selected examples, how through detailed desk studies, targeted ground investigations and comprehensive client-led interpretative reporting, the specific risks posed by these hazards were more clearly defined. Appropriate mitigation was then developed both during design and delivery to eliminate or reduce these risks to manageable levels.

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  • Authors
    Photo of Mike Black

    Mike Black BSc(Hons) MSc CSci CGeol FGS - Crossrail Ltd

    Mike is the Head of Geotechnics within Crossrail’s Chief Engineer’s Group.  Mike’s role is to provide technical and professional leadership for all geotechnical aspects for the tunnelling and civil engineering sub-surface infrastructure work.  He has been on the Crossrail Project since 1993 and has been involved in all stages of development of Crossrail from feasibility design, through the Parliamentary Bill process, ground investigations, civil design and construction.  Prior to joining Crossrail, Mike worked in the oil and gas industry in the North Sea, the Channel Tunnel, the A27 Brighton & Hove Bypass and the Jubilee Line Extension.

    https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-black-4aa9b81b?trk=hp-identity-name