Channel Tunnel

Channel Tunnel
source
Name	Channel Tunnel
Location	Strait of Dover
Coordinates	51.0125, 1.5041, type:landmark_region:GB
Status	Operational
Start	Folkestone, Kent, United Kingdom
End	Coquelles, Pas-de-Calais, France
System	Eurotunnel
Route	High Speed 1 / LGV Nord
Work begin	15 June 1988
Open	6 May 1994
Owner	Getlink
Operator	Eurotunnel
Traffic	Rail transport
Length	50.45 km
Lanes	2 single-track tunnels
Speed	160 km/h (shuttles), 300 km/h (trains)
Grade	1.1%
Lowest elevation	-75 m
Hwyelectrified	25 kV AC overhead catenary

Channel Tunnel. The Channel Tunnel is a undersea rail tunnel linking Folkestone in Kent, United Kingdom, with Coquelles near Calais in Pas-de-Calais, France, beneath the Strait of Dover at the English Channel. Operated by Getlink, it comprises three parallel tunnels: two for rail traffic and a central service tunnel, facilitating both passenger and freight Rail transport. Since its official opening in 1994, it has provided a critical fixed link between Great Britain and Continental Europe, primarily used by Eurostar high-speed passenger trains and Eurotunnel Shuttle vehicle transport services.

History

The concept of a fixed link across the English Channel dates back to the early 19th century, with proposals from engineers like Albert Mathieu-Favier and even a scheme considered by Napoleon Bonaparte. Serious development began in the 20th century, with the 1974 Channel Tunnel Treaty between the United Kingdom and France leading to an initial, aborted attempt. The project was revived under the governments of Margaret Thatcher and François Mitterrand, culminating in the 1986 Treaty of Canterbury which established the legal framework. The Channel Tunnel Group and France-Manche consortium were awarded the contract, leading to the start of construction in 1988 and its completion in 1994, a project overseen by chief executive Sir Alastair Morton.

Construction

Construction, one of the largest engineering projects of the 20th century, began simultaneously from both coasts. Eleven tunnel boring machines were used to excavate the three tunnels through a stable layer of chalk marl. The British terminal was constructed at Cheriton near Folkestone, while the French terminal was built at Coquelles. The two sides met in the middle with a breakthrough achieved in the service tunnel in December 1990, an event celebrated by workers Philippe Cozette and Graham Fagg. The project faced significant challenges, including geological surveys, complex financing involving over 200 banks, and stringent safety regulations from bodies like the Intergovernmental Commission.

Technical specifications

The tunnel system consists of two diameter single-track running tunnels spaced apart, and a central diameter service tunnel. The tunnels lie at an average depth of below the seabed, with the lowest point below sea level. The entire system is electrified with 25 kV AC overhead lines. Critical technical features include a sophisticated ventilation system, shuttle wagons designed for road vehicles, and extensive drainage and fire safety infrastructure, including fire-resistant doors and piston relief ducts.

Operations

Daily operations are managed by Getlink through its subsidiary Eurotunnel. The primary users are Eurostar passenger trains, which connect London St Pancras with Paris Gare du Nord, Brussels-South, and Amsterdam Centraal, and the Eurotunnel Shuttle for automobiles, coaches, and lorries. Freight operators like DB Cargo UK and SNCF also run regular services. Traffic control is centralized at the Rail Operating Centre in Folkestone, coordinating with Network Rail and SNCF Réseau to manage the intricate timetable on High Speed 1 and LGV Nord.

Economic and social impact

The tunnel has profoundly altered transport and economic links between the United Kingdom and Continental Europe, supporting the European Single Market. It has increased competition with ferry operators in the Port of Dover and Port of Calais, and spurred regional development in Nord-Pas-de-Calais and Kent. The project was financed entirely by private investment, with major shareholders including Michelin and Banque Nationale de Paris. While it faced initial financial difficulties for Eurotunnel, it has become a vital artery for trade, tourism, and cultural exchange, significantly reducing travel time between major cities like London and Paris.

Safety and security

Safety is paramount, governed by the Intergovernmental Commission and enforced by the Channel Tunnel Safety Authority. The design includes numerous safety measures such as the service tunnel, which acts as a safe haven and escape route, linked by cross-passages every . There are two large ventilation stations at Shakespeare Cliff and Sangatte. Security is a joint responsibility of British Transport Police, Police nationale, and Europol, with stringent border controls conducted by UK Border Force and Police aux Frontières at the respective terminals in a arrangement governed by the Le Touquet Treaty.

Category:Tunnels in England Category:Tunnels in France Category:Railway tunnels in the United Kingdom Category:Railway tunnels in France Category:Buildings and structures in Kent Category:Buildings and structures in Pas-de-Calais Category:English Channel