
The Norwegian Coastal Administration (Kystverket) has announced plans to proceed with the construction of the Stad ship tunnel, a project delayed due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Spanning 1.7km, the tunnel will measure 50m in height and 36m in width, cutting through the Stad peninsula to enhance maritime safety and efficiency.
Once completed, it will be the world’s first full-scale ship tunnel.
The initiative, under evaluation since the 1990s, was approved by the Norwegian Parliament in 2021. The project aims to provide an alternative route for cargo and passenger vessels, bypassing the hazardous waters around the peninsula.
Despite pandemic-related and planning delays, the Norwegian government has prioritised the tunnel to improve navigation in the region.
In December 2024, the design-build contract for the tunnel was issued for tender. The awarded contract will follow the NS 8407 standard, which outlines the responsibilities and obligations of clients and contractors in Norwegian design-build projects.
Contractors must adhere to legal, regulatory, and contractual requirements throughout the construction process.
If bids align with the project’s budget, the contract is expected to be signed by autumn 2025, with construction beginning in early 2026.
The Norwegian Coastal Administration estimates that the construction will take just under five years to complete.
In September 2024, the Norwegian Coastal Administration partnered with the Norwegian Public Roads Administration (NPRA) to advance the construction of the Stad ship tunnel.
The agreement focuses on collaboration during the tender phase and the period leading up to the signing of the construction contract.
The partnership outlines the roles and responsibilities of both agencies, aiming to streamline the procurement process and ensure effective project management.
The agreement may be extended to cover the construction phase of the tunnel, depending on project requirements.