Ferrovial inaugurates the Silvertown Tunnel in London, demonstrating the strength of its integrated model.

 

This emblematic project, awarded by Transport for London (TfL), represents a significant advance for mobility in the area, highlighting Ferrovial's ability to offer innovative and sustainable solutions through its comprehensive model and successful public-private partnership (PPP).

 

The contract, valued at £1.000 billion, was signed in November 2019 between TfL and the consortium Riverlinx, integrated by Ferrovial (through its Highways division), Aberdeen, Invesis and SK ecoplantUnder a PPP scheme, the consortium was responsible for the design, construction, financing, operation, and maintenance of the tunnel for a period of 25 years.

 

The project was carried out by the UTE Riverlinx CJV, formed by Ferrovial (through its Construction division), BAM and SK ecoplantThe synergy of each partner's international experience and market leadership, combined with a public-private partnership structure and an integrated team, enabled the project to be delivered as planned. This achievement materialized despite unprecedented global challenges, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, the Brexit, hyperinflation, shortages of materials and labor, and conflict in Ukraine.

 

The Silvertown Tunnel establishes a vital new connection between the Greenwich Peninsula and Royal Docks, two key areas in east London. This infrastructure is expected to significantly alleviate existing traffic congestion and improve connectivity for residents and businesses alike.

 

 

With the opening of the Silvertown Tunnel to the public, Ferrovial reaffirms its commitment to improving urban mobility and contributing to the development of resilient and sustainable cities.

 

 

 

The success of this project underscores the inherent benefits of the public-private partnership model. This approach combines public sector oversight with the efficiency and expertise of the private sector, ensuring that infrastructure projects are completed on time and within budget, while maintaining the highest standards of quality and safety. Ferrovial's extensive experience in PPP projects has been instrumental in achieving these results, demonstrating the value of this model in addressing complex infrastructure challenges.

 

The construction of the Silvertown Tunnel was characterized by the implementation of numerous innovations and engineering milestonesThese include the use of the largest diameter tunnel boring machine ever used in the UK and the adoption of world-first advances in this type of machinery, such as innovative systems Pressure Ring Launch (PRL) and Floating Rotation (FR). During the construction phase, 1.870.477 tons of waste and materials were transported using the river as the main transport route, representing 71,4% of the total. This strategy avoided approximately 125.000 heavy goods vehicle journeys on one of London's most congested and polluted roads during rush hour.

 

In addition, the Riverlinx consortium achieved a 28% reduction in carbon emissions (11.728 tonnes of CO2e) by optimizing the conceptual design, removing the tunnel's secondary lining, reducing its diameter, and redesigning the cross-pass rings.

 

From these advanced tunneling techniques to the implementation of sustainable construction practices, the team demonstrated exceptional skill and ingenuity in realizing this vision.

 

With the opening of the Silvertown Tunnel to the public, Ferrovial reaffirms its commitment to the improving urban mobility and its contribution to the development of resilient and sustainable cities. This project stands as a paradigmatic example of what can be achieved through collaboration, innovation, and a constant dedication to excellence at every stage of the infrastructure project lifecycle.