The 2025 Road Tunnel Operators Forum (RoTOF) took centre stage at Liverpool’s Titanic Hotel on 18-19 March, bringing together leading voices in tunnel safety, operations, and technology.
Hosted by Dalkia, a recognised leader in road tunnel infrastructure, the two-day event provided a vital platform for experts, policymakers, and suppliers to explore the latest advancements shaping the future of tunnel management.
With more than 20 major road tunnel refurbishments completed across the UK since 2010, Dalkia has played a key role in delivering large-scale infrastructure solutions, from LED lighting and fire suppression to ventilation and integrated tunnel control systems. Hosting RoTOF 2025 reinforced the company’s commitment to driving
innovation, improving safety, and fostering industry-wide collaboration.
Tackling Industry Challenges and Innovations
The conference opened with a welcome address from Dalkia, followed by a deep dive into the company’s expertise, including a case study on its refurbishment of the recently Queensway Tunnel upgrade. This set the stage for a packed schedule of expert-led sessions featuring speakers from Atkins Realis, the Road Tunnel
Association, Signify, Liverpool City Region, and Zitron. Key topics included emerging safety regulations, smart technology integration, and sustainable infrastructure solutions.
Lively Q&A discussions gave delegates the chance to engage directly with speakers, challenging conventional thinking and exploring practical solutions to the industry’s most pressing challenges. Meanwhile, the associated exhibition showcased some of the latest advancements in tunnel operations, with leading suppliers demonstrating cutting-edge innovations designed to improve safety, efficiency, and sustainability.
Shaping the Future of Tunnel Operations
Day two continued the momentum, with sessions featuring Mott MacDonald, Teledyne FLIR, Dublin Port Tunnel, PDS, and Codra, among others. One of the key moments of the day was an address from Dalkia UK’s CEO, who highlighted the company’s role in supporting road tunnel operators with solutions that enhance
safety, efficiency, and sustainability. The forum closed with updates from PIARC and ITA-COSUF, setting the industry’s agenda for the months ahead.
The Verdict: A Resounding Success
By the time the final discussions wrapped up, one thing was clear – RoTOF 2025 was a resounding success. With industry leaders, technology pioneers, and key decision-makers coming together under one roof, the event reinforced its reputation as a must-attend forum for anyone invested in the future of road tunnel operations.
(Pic: Dalkia Engineering/Jeff Evans)
