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)

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