The works, for Norwegian Public Roads Administration, are valued at approximately SEK1.5bn (£115.3m).

NCC will construct route E136, a 3.3km, four-lane road that will largely comprise a tunnel. The road is the main part of the major Bypakke Ålesund infrastructure project, which is an initiative to reduce road traffic in Ålesund in west Norway. In addition to relieving pressure on the existing road network and creating space for more public transport, the new road will also shorten travel times and improve accessibility and road safety.

Construction is set to start in spring this year and the project is scheduled for completion in 2027.

“This project is particularly well aligned with NCC’s expertise in road and tunnel construction, and together with the Norwegian Public Roads Administration we have set the prerequisites for a successful partnership,” said NCC’s head of infrastructure, Kenneth Nilsson.

NCC’s previous tunnelling projects include sections of Stockholm’s new metro line and two road tunnels and a roundabout under the seabed in the Faroe Islands, where the final Sandoy tunnel was handed over in December last year.