Detailed design is currently underway and once this has been approved by Network Rail preparation of the site will begin in order to resume permanent construction of the tunnel.

The first stage of this permanent construction process will involve keeping the existing tunnel framework and using a crane to add in new units where the collapse occurred.

These units will then be used as a cast for the new reinforced concrete arch, with concrete being poured over them. The advantage of this is that while the original arch is made from units which connect in the middle, the reinforced concrete arch will be seamless as well as adding a significant layer of extra support that will bear the weight of the store and store foundations.

This process of pouring concrete will be completed in stages from east to west towards Packhorse Bridge Road with fill material being added and water-proofing taking place.

Once the tunnel has been completed, building of the store will commence which we estimate will take 26 weeks. The store’s foundations will be modified but the store will remain the same as how it was originally designed and approved. Meanwhile several road improvements will be carried out and completed by December 2009.

With construction work completed and the station area reinstated the store will open in March 2010.