Tunnels

The design and construction of these tunnels (immersed, bored or land-based tunnels) are often complex challenges. In urban areas, it is convenient if roads and railway lines go underground, but there is little space to build, and, moreover, it should cause the least possible disruption.

We can adequately address this complexity because of our extensive experience in tunnel design. We use digital tools that allow us to arrange the design process as efficiently as possible. This applies to the entire design process: from conducting technical feasibility studies to the final design.

On an international level, we work closely with Royal HaskoningDHV in a permanent joint venture TEC (Tunnel Engineering Consultants). In this collaboration, we focus exclusively on immersed tunnels, with TEC being the world leader in design, construction and renovation. Some prominent examples of our work are the Maasdeltatunnel in Rotterdam and the Fehmarnbelt, a rail and car tunnel connecting Germany and Denmark.

Witteveen+Bos is also active in the field of land-based tunnels. We provided, for instance, the engineering for an interchange with two intersecting tunnels. This solution was used for the southern ring road in Groningen. For this project, we designed, among other things, an ingenious prefabricated reinforcement.

Besides design and construction, we also provide installation services such as lighting, monitoring, barriers, automation and cybersecurity. Safety is a crucial factor for tunnel users. To increase safety, we can determine at which locations security cameras can be installed based on 3D simulations and Digital Twins. By optimising this, we can achieve savings without compromising safety.