INTEGRATION OF HIGH-SPEED RAIL IN VALENCIA

Key facts

The main objective of the construction work on the New Valencia Access Canal is to move the access tracks to València Nord and València Joaquín Sorolla stations underground, thereby removing the historic railway barrier in the south of the city and freeing up space for the creation of a large green boulevard connected to the Parque Central.

The project involves the construction, using the cut-and-cover method, of a tunnel up to 50 metres wide, with sections comprising up to three underground levels to pass beneath existing infrastructure, including the southern sewer, which will be diverted over a distance of approximately 2 km.

The project presents a high degree of technical and geotechnical complexity as it is being carried out in an urban environment, with nearby buildings and a very shallow water table. To ensure the stability and watertightness of the excavations, diaphragm walls up to 30 metres deep are being used, along with groundwater control systems and ground improvement treatments using jet grouting.

One of the main challenges is that the works are being carried out whilst rail operations continue, with around 400 trains running daily, which requires successive rail diversions to ensure construction does not disrupt the service.

The contract also includes supervision of the extension and refurbishment of Valencia Joaquín Sorolla Station, which will feature an 11-track standard-gauge bay, new platforms, a new elevated concourse and an extension to the car park. It also encompasses other complementary works, such as a new gauge changer, the adaptation of existing tunnels, protection and safety installations, and the construction of the CTT tracks.