Engineering fire safety at 250mph – Booth’s sliding cross passage doors set a new global benchmark.

Booth Industries is proud to have been awarded a landmark contract directly with HS2 – the UK’s flagship high-speed rail project.

These specialist doors will provide critical fire protection between cross passages along Phase 1 of the HS2 route (London Euston to Birmingham), ensuring a safe means of escape in the event of fire. Each doorset will seal the cross passageways between the northbound and southbound tunnels, protecting passengers and staff while allowing emergency access when needed.

When tendering for the cross passage door package, HS2’s priority was not only operational reliability but also setting the highest possible safety standard. Booth Industries was selected as market leader in safety, quality, and high-performance door solutions – with decades of proven delivery on major infrastructure projects including HS1 and Crossrail.

Highspeed train railroad track – bridge and tunnel entrance

Engineering to meet extreme demands

HS2 is one of the most challenging infrastructure projects in the world. Trains will travel at up to 250 mph, passing just metres from the doors. These doorsets must provide two hours’ fire integrity and insulation while withstanding constant 14kPa pressure cycles – a world-first combination of performance criteria, setting a new industry benchmark.

The project’s initial phase has focused on design development and rigorous testing. We have already delivered the first cast-in subframes, with full manufacturing and installation set to begin around 2025.

Two trains move fast to the different directions at sunset time.

Delivering innovation, scale, and local benefit

This contract recognises Booth’s ability to provide an end-to-end solution – from design and testing through to manufacture, installation, and ongoing support. To deliver this major programme, we have extended our main manufacturing facility with a new purpose-built wing, complete with enhanced welfare and testing facilities, creating up to 50 new skilled local jobs.