A 14-m diameter EPB (Earth Pressure Balance) tunnel boring machine (TBM), believed to be the largest in Hong Kong, has arrived on site as part of the construction of a major transport link between Hong Kong’s northeast New Territories and Shenzhen East on mainland China, the Liantang - Heung Yuen Wai Boundary Crossing Facility (BCF).

Responsible for the detailed design on the project, the Atkins team attended the TBM launching ceremony on 31 August along with contractor, Dragages, and other stakeholders.

Eric Chui, Atkins’ project director, said, “Teaming up with Dragages for this challenging project has been rewarding as we share the same vision to always seek better solutions. Pushing the boundaries and thinking out of the box are key to designing complex projects like Liantang.”

Part of Atkins’ scope is the detailed design of the 4.8 km dual two-lane Lung Shan Tunnel, which is set to become the longest land road tunnel in Hong Kong.

“Once completed, the link will shorten the travelling time between Hong Kong and eastern Guangdong province, southern Fujian and Jiangxi province, which will aid future cooperation and development. Passenger and cargo flow across the boundary will become smoother and more efficient. The new BCF will play a strategic role in sustaining the long-term economic growth of Hong Kong,” added Mr Chui.

The project is under a tight construction schedule and is due for completion in 2018.