Kent’s Medway Tunnel could receive a £10.5 million overhaul to replace its ageing systems. More than 50,000 journeys are made along the route every day, but much of the infrastructure dates back to when it opened in 1996, says Kent Online.

Medway Council says it has submitted a £9.25 million bid to the Department for Transport’s Structures Fund, which pledges £1 million of its own money, to secure the future of the 720-metre tunnel that was the first immersed tube road tunnel built in England and cost £80 million to construct. The council says the tunnel itself remains structurally sound, but some of its systems have become obsolete, while specialist replacement parts are becoming harder to source. The Council says routine maintenance is also becoming more complicated and expensive.

The proposed programme would see the tunnel’s electrical, ventilation, pumping and life-safety systems renewed in a major investment designed to keep the crossing operating for decades to come

Cllr Alex Paterson, Medway Council’s portfolio holder for highways, said:

This investment will ensure this critical piece of infrastructure for Medway and the wider south east is fit for the future,” he said.

“While our teams do an excellent job in maintaining the tunnel and keeping it running, the time has come when substantial investment is required.

“The proposed scheme will future-proof this vital asset, address the risks we face today, and ensure the Medway Tunnel continues to contribute to the economic growth and regeneration in the region tomorrow.”

(Picture: Mapillary)