This ambitious Barcelona Metro Line 8 extension will introduce four kilometers of new track, three new stations (Gràcia, Clínic, and Francesc Macià), and include a significant upgrade to the existing Espanya station. The Joint Venture (JV) awarded the project comprises Sacyr (27.5%), Ferrovial (27.5%), Copcisa (22.5%), and Copisa (22.5%).
The TBM, a critical component for this expansion, is presently in Sant Boi, where it's undergoing its conclusive tests.
“We are conducting thorough inspections, testing all components, software, automation, and mechanical functions to guarantee flawless operation before relocating it to the Gran Vía launching shaft,” explains Toni Julià, the JV's Construction Manager.
Later this month, the TBM's various components will commence their transfer to the launching shaft, marking the precise location where excavation will begin. This powerful machine is expected to remove over 300,000 cubic meters of earth.
The excavated material will be transported from Joan Miró Park via an auxiliary micro-tunnel constructed beneath Llançà Street. From there, a dedicated conveyor belt system will transfer the spoil to waiting trucks for disposal at a landfill.
“The launching shaft is progressing very well: the front section is being prepared with the base slab for TBM assembly, while the rear is being configured for its connection with the micro-tunnel. We are also erecting an acoustic enclosure to mitigate noise during the boring operations,” Juliá adds.
Constructing Record-Breaking 82-Meter Diaphragm Walls
Even as the TBM assembly advances, other critical construction activities are in full swing.
At the Hospital Clínic and Francesc Macià station sites, hydrofraise trench cutters are actively constructing diaphragm walls that will reach an impressive depth of 82 meters. These are set to be the deepest ever built in Spain.
These robust diaphragm walls are essential; they will enable the safe excavation of the shafts through which the TBM will pass and, subsequently, facilitate the construction of the underground caverns designed to house the station platforms.
Key Highlights of this Major Infrastructure Project
“With an anticipated 19 million annual users, this project represents one of the most socially and economically beneficial undertakings within the Generalitat's Infrastructure Master Plan,” Toni Julià emphasizes.
The L8 extension will seamlessly connect Barcelona's two primary railway networks—Baix Llobregat and Vallès—managed by FGC. This integration is poised to significantly enhance intermodality and overall city-wide mobility. The project carries a budget of €322 million and is scheduled for completion within 61 months.
