On behalf of Infrabel, we renewed a total of 19.25 kilometres of track on HSL 1 between Halle and Enghien in August 2026. Deploying a wide range of equipment, we replaced approximately 38 kilometres of rails and more than 32,000 sleepers, cleaned the ballast and renewed a special section of the track on the Charleroi canal bridge.

Large-scale track renewal

The works we are carrying out together with Infrabel and local partners took place on the LGV L1 (HSL 1) between Brussels and the French border. This high-speed line is a key international rail connection and is used intensively by passenger services, including Eurostar. Given the importance of the line, the works have been executed during a 19-day possession, in order to keep disruption for passengers and operators to an absolute minimum.

This is a relatively short period considering the scale of the works we completed during this possession. We renewed approximately 38 kilometres of rails and some 32,083 sleepers along a 19.25-kilometre stretch of track.

Deployment of people and equipment

Given the scope of this project and the limited possession time, we worked around the clock with large teams operating simultaneously. At peak times, as many as 130 people worked at the same time across the various work sites. Close cooperation with our client Infrabel and our local partners enabled us to coordinate all activities efficiently.

For this project we deployed a range of heavy on-track machinery. Our track renewal train, the RU 800S, renewed the track in full. The 4X tamping machine brought the track to the correct level and alignment, after which the EM-SAT surveyed the track geometry. Finally, the BDS distributed and profiled the ballast. The combination of our machinery and a tightly organised execution allows us to renew a considerable length of track within a short time frame.

Works on the Charleroi canal bridge

A specific element of the project is the track renewal on the Charleroi canal bridge. On this structure, we replaced an existing expansion device (UT) with a new Pandrol Free system designed by Infrabel.

An expansion device accommodates movement in the track on structures such as bridges. The new Pandrol Free system therefore represents a significant upgrade on the bridge and contributes to a future-proof track structure.

Looking back at 2025

In the summer of 2025, under a separate contract, we renewed the first track between Halle and Enghien. Over a length of approximately 16 kilometres, rails and sleepers were replaced and the ballast was cleaned. The works in August 2026 will address the second track along this section.

The 2025 works were carried out in an intensive operation spanning 18 days and nights. Around 90 technicians, divided into three shifts, worked day and night on the track renewal. Using the RU 800 S and other specialised track construction equipment, more than 2 kilometres of track were renewed per day.

First project phase in 2024

One year earlier, in the summer of 2024, we renewed the first section of HSL 1, likewise under a separate contract. Approximately 18 kilometres of track in one direction were renewed between Tourpes and Brugelette. The equipment deployed for these works included the RU 800 S, a tamping machine and a BDS.

Building a future-proof HSL together

With the works in 2024, 2025 and 2026, we are working together with Infrabel and our partners to deliver a reliable, safe and future-proof track on one of Belgium's most important high-speed connections.