Tunnels

This report documents the best practice approaches for the use of road tunnel wall panels and finishes, which informed the development of a specification framework. This was developed through a workshop with subject-matter experts, review of current practice, stakeholder consultation and a review of literature.

Limited information was identified through the literature, with the stakeholders and design documentation largely informing the current design, operational and maintenance practice. The design practice review identified the requirements for a number of Australian and New Zealand road tunnels, which included the aesthetics, material, framing, design life and loading. The operations and maintenance practice review identified considerations to be incorporated in the design and the processes involved. These included the ability for wall panels to be removed and replaced, monitoring, access, human factors and cleaning.

Based on the findings, a framework for a specification was developed. This identifies the information which is required to select and install the appropriate panel and finish for road tunnel walls. The framework is suggested to be developed into an Austroads technical specification, with agreed requirements for materials and design parameters.

Watch a webinar with Tony Peglas and Georgia O’Connor for a detailed overview of the project and its findings.