AECOM, in a joint venture with AtkinsRéalis, has been awarded a consultancy agreement by Hong Kong’s Highways Department to deliver the Hong Kong section of the Hong Kong–Shenzhen Western Rail Link (HSWRL). The cross-boundary railway, connecting Hung Shui Kiu with Qianhai in Shenzhen, forms a key part of the Northern Metropolis Development Strategy and aims to strengthen connectivity across the Greater Bay Area.
The 7.3-kilometre Hong Kong section will link Hung Shui Kiu to the border with Shenzhen, where it will connect to a 10.8-kilometre section in mainland China.
15-minute journey to support ‘one-hour living circle’
Once completed, the full 18.1-kilometre railway will integrate metro networks on both sides of the boundary, significantly improving regional accessibility and supporting cross-border commuting. A journey between Hung Shui Kiu and Qianhai is expected to take around 15 minutes.
“We’re proud to support the Highways Department as it expands its world-class railway network for greater regional mobility,” said Mark Southwell, chief executive of AECOM’s global Transportation business. “Our teams have delivered some of Hong Kong’s most transformative railway projects, and we look forward to applying our expertise as the world’s top rail and mass transit firm to realize this complex infrastructure initiative.”
The HSWRL is intended to contribute to sustainable urban development, foster economic integration, and encourage cultural exchange between Hong Kong and Shenzhen. It is also expected to enhance Hong Kong’s integration into broader national development plans by contributing to the Greater Bay Area’s “one-hour living circle” concept.
“This award reflects the global experience and deep sector knowledge that our integrated team brings to complex infrastructure projects,” said Ian Chung, chief executive of AECOM’s Asia region. “Having worked extensively on key projects in the region, we are honored to collaborate with the HKSAR Government on this vital cross-boundary link.”
The consultancy scope includes investigation, design, and construction support. A unified Building Information Modelling (BIM) platform and a Common Data Environment (CDE) will be deployed across all stages to promote transparency, efficiency and effective collaboration.
The HSWRL is among the major transport initiatives outlined in Hong Kong’s 2023 Major Transport Infrastructure Development Blueprint. AECOM previously contributed to the region’s long-term transport planning through its role in the Strategic Studies on Railways and Major Roads beyond 2030. The company also has a strong track record in delivering significant railway projects in Hong Kong, including Hong Kong West Kowloon Station and the Shatin to Central Link.
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