A viewing platform has been opened for the construction of the Fehmarnbelt tunnel.
The 24m-high structure, known as ‘Pilen’, or the ‘Arrow’ will enable visitors to observe progress on the 18km immersed tunnel. It is expected to attract up to 100,000 visitors a year.
It was opened by apprentices and is regarded as a facility to inspire careers in construction.
Pilen is a 217m-long ramp close to the site where the tunnel begins, and where trains and car traffic will drive into the tunnel to Puttgarden.
“Pilen offers views of the construction site, the construction of the tunnel itself and the surrounding landscape and will provide visitors from Denmark and abroad with a fascinating and inspiring insight into the historic construction,” said Mikkel Hemmingsen from client Sund & Bælt.
“Not only does Pilen offer a superb overview, it also provides a great insight into the many different types of training that a world-class construction project requires to achieve its goal. A visit here will therefore fascinate and inspire children and young people to opt for professional training within the construction sector. You could say that Pilen not only points towards Europe, but also towards the future.”
Claus Jensen, President of the Dansk Metal union president Claus Jensen said the Fehmarnbelt Fixed Link had become “a beacon” for professional pride, apprentice responsibility and vocational training in Denmark.
“We need to plant a seed that can grow in young people before they choose their educational path,” he said at the opening of Pilen.
Danish Vocational and Technical School Students Union chairman Mads Haugbølle Behrendsen said Pilen was more than just a viewing point, “it’s a symbol of vision and ambition”.
Sund & Bælt requires Femern Link Contractors to train a minimum of 500 apprentice FTEs (full-time equivalents) during the construction period.
Last month the first two elements for the Fehmarnbelt tunnel were moved from the dry dock into the large basins in front the tunnel factory at Rødbyhavn, Denmark. A total of 89 elements will be used for the project.
