Ramsgate Harbour Approach

The Ramsgate Harbour Approach project saw a single bore, two lane, 800 metre tunnel constructed by a joint venture between Taylor Woodrow (UK) LTD and the French Tunnelling Contractor, Perforex.

In order to deliver the scheme within the required cost restraints and challenging programme deadlines, the contract was executed using the NEC Engineering and Construction Contract, under partnering arrangements.

VVB was appointed by Taylor Woodrow on a target cost basis to manage delivery of the Mechanical and Electrical (M&E) elements of the contract from inception, through installation and commissioning to completion.

VVB’s role included:

• Liaison with consultants
• Review and comment on design
• Interface with civil contractors
• Value engineering and design amendments
• Letting contracts
• Management of specialist suppliers

VVB provided all engineering support, installation and maintenance of the prevaulting tunnel method – the first time the method was used in the UK.

VVB’s involvement throughout the contract and collaboration with civils, consultants and end user, meant a smooth transition from completion of tunnel construction into Permanent Work installation. This delivered substantial programme benefits.

VVB’s temporary M&E services scope included lighting, LV distribution, ventilation, PA and evacuation systems, installation and maintenance of the prevault machine, and tunnel drainage.

VVB’s building services scope included specialist control, communications and subsystem equipment. The client required operational surveillance of the Chestfield Tunnel to be carried out at the Ramsgate Control Building. The distance between the two sites is approx 30 kilometres and this was achieved utilising a microwave link.

Finally, the Tunnel Service Building Services and Communications scope included small power and lighting, HVAC, fire alarms and suppression, the security and access control system and delivery of all control signals.