Eiffage has built up a strong track-record of TGV schemes in France. It is currently constructing the Bretagne to Pays de la Loire project, one of Europe’s largest high-speed rail projects, which is due for completion in May 2017.

The firm was also involved in the Millau Viaduct and the LGV Perpignan-Figueras high speed railway line.

Eiffage chairman and CEO, Pierre Berger, said “Eiffage is looking forward to working with our UK partners, Carillion and Kier, bringing the latest design and construction expertise from continental Europe to support the successful delivery of this new High Speed Rail route that will stimulate growth in the UK economy in the way similar schemes are in Europe.”

Haydn Mursell, chief executive, Kier said: “It is excellent to be able to bring together the combined talents and expertise of three major infrastructure partners, to provide a highly experienced delivery solution for HS2.

“The government has signalled its ongoing commitment to the project, in the recent Queen’s Speech and with today’s revisions to the HS2 hybrid Bill, so the formation of this joint venture is well-timed to respond to the progression of what will be the country’s largest infrastructure project to date.”

They join a growing band of international firms that have revealed their JV line-ups ahead of shortlisted contenders for the first set of tenders being invited to bid in September.

Consortia are hoping to compete for nine, £1bn design and build civil engineering contracts include several major French and Spanish civil engineering giants.