The 15 Billion Pound Railway

The 15 Billion Pound Railway (2014-2022)

EndedDocumentary show

Ten thousand engineers and construction workers fight to stop London's streets caving in or snarling up with traffic as they race to complete Crossrail in time for the first train.

Network
Scheduleevery Sunday at 20:00 (60 min)

Last Episode

Episode 2
Season 4Episode 260 min

Episode 2

We follow 83-year-old site manager Jim Forrest – one of the oldest engineers on the project. He joined the Whitechapel Station build in 2009 and has seen it from tunnel boring and concrete pouring to constructing the station steel works and vital fit-out works. In order to open the station, Jim and the team must ensure it's safe in the event of a fire – learning the lessons of the 1987 King's Cross fire. They must conduct a crucial smoke trial on the platform to test the ventilation systems can extract huge amount of smoke should a fire break out. An overlooked detail in this phase could become a matter of life and death when the railway opens. 

Before any station on the line can open to the public, the railway must undergo a series of critical safety trials to judge whether Elizabeth line staff are ready to respond in the event of an emergency – from passengers falling sick on a train to the handling of a reported fire. 

We follow Lewis George and Rebecca Edwards, who are in charge of the trials and must coordinate the railway's largest evacuation trial involving 900 volunteers as they're rescued from a train in the tunnels and evacuated from Canary Wharf station – one of the largest central stations. If staff can't evacuate passengers safely, the teams could face more delays to the opening of the railway.

The end of the film sees the Queen visit Paddington Station and goes behind the scenes as the grand opening day of the Elizabeth line finally arrives, attended by Mayor of London Sadiq Khan, TFL commissioner Andy Byford, Crossrail CEO Mark Wild and more than 130,000 eager passengers and train enthusiasts jostling to board the first train services to depart. As the first train leaves Paddington, we check in with the men and women who helped build the line and featured across past series – station by station.

Jun 19, 2022

Recent Episodes

EpisodeNameAirdate
S04E02Episode 2Jun 19, 2022
S04E01Episode 1Jun 12, 2022
S03E02Episode 2Feb 20, 2019
S03E01Episode 1Feb 13, 2019
S02E02Episode 2May 29, 2017
View all episodesView all seasons

Frequently Asked Questions  Warning: Spoilers

When did 'The 15 Billion Pound Railway' premiere?

'The 15 Billion Pound Railway' premiered in 2014.

Who were the main characters in 'The 15 Billion Pound Railway'?

The main characters in 'The 15 Billion Pound Railway' were the engineers, construction workers, and planners involved in the ambitious project.

What was the premise of 'The 15 Billion Pound Railway'?

'The 15 Billion Pound Railway' documented the construction of the Crossrail project in London, showcasing the challenges and triumphs of building a massive underground railway system.

How many episodes were there in 'The 15 Billion Pound Railway'?

'The 15 Billion Pound Railway' consisted of several episodes that followed the progress of the Crossrail construction project.

What were some of the technical challenges faced during the construction of the Crossrail project?

Some of the technical challenges faced during the construction of the Crossrail project included tunnelling under existing infrastructure, ensuring the stability of the ground, and coordinating various engineering tasks.

Who were the key figures involved in the construction of the Crossrail project?

The construction of the Crossrail project involved a multitude of key figures, including engineers, architects, construction workers, and project managers.

What were some of the engineering feats showcased in 'The 15 Billion Pound Railway'?

'The 15 Billion Pound Railway' showcased engineering feats such as constructing massive tunnels, building deep underground stations, and integrating the new railway system with existing infrastructure.

What was the expected impact of the Crossrail project on London's transportation system?

The Crossrail project was expected to provide faster and more efficient transportation options for Londoners, reducing congestion and improving connectivity across the city.

How long did the construction of the Crossrail project take?

The construction of the Crossrail project took several years to complete, involving meticulous planning, engineering, and construction processes.

What were some of the environmental considerations taken into account during the construction of the Crossrail project?

Environmental considerations during the construction of the Crossrail project included minimizing noise and vibration, managing waste and materials, and ensuring the preservation of historical sites.

How did 'The 15 Billion Pound Railway' showcase the collaboration between different teams and organizations?

'The 15 Billion Pound Railway' highlighted the collaborative efforts between engineers, construction workers, architects, and various organizations involved in the Crossrail project, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and coordination.

How did the construction of the Crossrail project impact local communities?

The construction of the Crossrail project had both positive and negative impacts on local communities, including disruptions caused by construction activities and the potential for increased economic growth and accessibility in the long run.

What were some of the safety considerations addressed during the construction of the Crossrail project?

Safety considerations during the construction of the Crossrail project included implementing strict protocols, ensuring worker safety, and minimizing risks associated with underground construction.

Did 'The 15 Billion Pound Railway' explore any innovative construction techniques?

Yes, 'The 15 Billion Pound Railway' delved into innovative construction techniques and technologies used during the Crossrail project, showcasing advancements in tunneling, excavation, and construction methods.

How did 'The 15 Billion Pound Railway' capture the scale and complexity of the Crossrail project?

'The 15 Billion Pound Railway' used visual storytelling and behind-the-scenes footage to capture the immense scale and complexity of the Crossrail project, allowing viewers to witness the challenges faced by the construction teams.

What were some of the long-term benefits anticipated from the completion of the Crossrail project?

The completion of the Crossrail project was expected to bring long-term benefits to London, including improved transportation, increased connectivity, and enhanced economic opportunities.

Cast

Julian Barratt

Julian Barratt

voices himself
View all cast

Characters

Narrator

Narrator

voiced by Julian Barratt
View all characters

Also known as

  • The Fifteen Billion Pound Railway
  • London's Super Tunnel (Australia)

Recently Updated Shows

Recently updated shows that might be of your interest.
NCIS
Running

NCIS

NCIS (Naval Criminal Investigative Service) is more than just an action drama. With liberal doses of humor, it's a show that focuses on the sometimes complex and always amusing dynamics of a team forced to work together in high-stress situations. Leroy Jethro Gibbs, a former Marine gunnery sergeant, whose skills as an investigator are unmatched, leads this troupe of colorful personalities. Rounding out the team are Anthony DiNozzo, an ex-homicide detective whose instincts in the field are unparalleled and whose quick wit and humorous take on life make him a team favorite; the youthful and energetic forensic specialist Abby Sciuto, a talented scientist whose sharp mind matches her Goth style and eclectic tastes; Caitlin Todd, an ex-Secret Service Agent; and Timothy McGee, an MIT graduate whose brilliance with computers far overshadows his insecurities in the field; Assisting the team is medical examiner Dr. Donald "Ducky" Mallard, who knows it all because he's seen it all, and he's not afraid to let you know. From murder and espionage to terrorism and stolen submarines, these special agents travel the globe to investigate all crimes with Navy or Marine Corps ties.

GenreDrama, Action, Crime
Landman
Running

Landman

Set in the proverbial boomtowns of West Texas, Landman is a modern day tale of fortune seeking in the world of oil rigs. The series is an upstairs/downstairs story of roughnecks and wildcat billionaires fueling a boom so big, it's reshaping our climate, our economy and our geopolitics.

GenreDrama
The Creep Tapes
Running

The Creep Tapes

Based on a collection of videotapes in the secret vault of the world's deadliest and most socially uncomfortable serial killer, who hires his victims to film him for the day under false pretenses, each episode exposes a new victim from one of the fabled 'Creep Tapes'.

GenreHorror
America's Funniest Home Videos
Running

America's Funniest Home Videos

ABC's longest-running primetime entertainment show, America's Funniest Home Videos, returns for season 36 this fall with the same mission -- giving families something genuinely funny to enjoy together on Sunday nights.

"AFV," the longest-running primetime entertainment show in ABC history, returns for season 36 with the same mission - to provide viewers with hysterical moments that fly by at a dizzying pace.

GenreComedy, Family
The Real Housewives of Potomac
Running

The Real Housewives of Potomac

Just up the river from our nation's capital lies a hidden gem—Potomac, Maryland. Its rolling hills, gated mansions, sophisticated prep schools, and exclusive country clubs all serve to keep the area invitation-only. Sprinkled throughout this community are a handful of old-line, wealthy African-American families who have historically broken racial barriers to provide a life of privilege for their children. The Real Housewives of Potomac follows the upscale lives of six intriguing, well-to-do women: Gizelle Bryant, Katie Rost, Karen Huger, Charrisse Jackson-Jordan, Robyn Dixon, and Ashley Darby, all of whom have fought for their places in this society by way of legacy or marriage. In a town where entry is granted only through class, pedigree, and lineage, how far will these ladies go to secure their spot at the top of this prestigious circle?

* This is an affiliate link. If you click and purchase, we will receive a commission from the provider. This will not incur any additional costs for you and you will support our project. We thank you for your support!