Simoco Supplies Communications in U.K. Tunnels

Paul Ducker Systems (PDS), a subcontractor to Balfour Beatty Engineering Services, appointed Team Simoco to provide communications systems for the new A3 Hindhead road tunnel and the refurbishment of the A1 Hatfield road tunnel in the United Kingdom.

Specializing in supplying transportation infrastructure for tunnels and road networks, PDS provides solutions to metro, rail and airport operators. The tunnels’ extensive communications systems require GSM mobile, Airwave, fireground, voice break-in and a dedicated professional mobile radio (PMR) radio system.

“Both the Hindhead and Hatfield road tunnels are designed to offer vehicles more convenient and quicker journeys, but due to the high volumes of traffic that travel along these routes, it is imperative that the communications systems in place offer reliable and uninterruptable access in case of accidents or fires,” said Team Simoco CEO Ian Carr.

Located in Surrey, between London and Portsmouth, the Hindhead twin bore road tunnel is designed to remove traffic congestion from the A3 and the local road network. Work began on the project in 2007, and the tunnel is scheduled to open to traffic in mid-2011. The Hatfield road tunnel in Hertfordshire is also due to be re-opened to traffic in mid-2011.

Source: www.radioresourcemag.com