Bridge and tunnel expertise you can rely on

A single point of contact for your entire project

Designing a bridge or tunnel is one thing. But ensuring that all technical, spatial, and social aspects are perfectly aligned is a totally different matter That requires a multidisciplinary team that works together as one unit. We coordinate the entire process: from feasibility studies to design, tendering, and delivery. This ensures that you avoid loss of time and misunderstandings between different parties.

Designing with a focus on place, user, and the future

Every project starts with the context: the genius loci, the meaning of the place. We analyse the environment and landscape, the users (from wildlife to cyclists), as well as the societal challenges. For example:

• Climate change and the need for robust, resilient infrastructure
• Biodiversity and the importance of eco-connectivity
• Modal shift: more space for pedestrians, cyclists, and public transport
• Social cohesion, health, and spatial quality
• Design: the architecture of the structure, landscape design, and aesthetics.

We translate these insights into a programme tailored to the users, with a participatory approach that also builds proverbial bridges between stakeholders.

From standard to customised solutions

Some structures can be classified under a generic framework. An example would be the replacement of similar movable bridges. Others require customised solutions, for example, in complex topography or sensitive contexts. We position each project at the right point on this spectrum. This allows us to optimally align the level of ambition and resources with the task.

Design research as a driver for quality

We conduct design research to arrive at the best solution. We test, evaluate, and optimise spatial configurations, and bring together various disciplines: soil, water, landscape and ecology, mobility, technology, participation, etc. This results in an integrated design that is flexible, robust, and future-proof – with attention to the entire lifecycle.

Tunnel technology that guarantees safety and efficiency
We have broad-based and in-depth expertise in Tunnel Technical Installations (TTI). Our designs conform to European, Belgian, and Flemish guidelines, with which we are thoroughly familiar. Among other things, we design:

• Lighting and escape route systems (such as contour and guide lights)
• Evacuation facilities: emergency exits, positive pressure ventilation, escape shafts
• Fire safety: passive protection, fire extinguishing systems, smoke control
• Energy and ventilation: from power supply to air quality sensors
• Security and communication: camera surveillance, break-in systems, ASTRID
• Automation: operation, control, monitoring, and event logging

Technology, tools, and experience that make the difference

Sweco brings years of experience from projects such as the A11 motorway, the Oosterweel link (including canal tunnels, the Scheldt tunnel), and metro tunnels in Brussels and Paris. This experience translates into clear added value for your project. We have strong technical expertise, from tunnel guidelines to risk modelling. Our integrated approach ensures that all thematic disciplines – soil, water, engineering, ventilation, ecology, spatial planning, etc. work seamlessly together. With digital tools such as BIM modelling and parametric design, we increase efficiency and design quality. With a well-thought-out project management, we maintain control over the study budget, construction costs, and management costs.

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