English Channel Tunnel

Plans to build a cross-Channel fixed link appeared as early as 1802, but British political and media pressure over the compromising of national security had disrupted attempts to build one. It was not until the late 20th century, though, that the necessary technology was developed.

In 1880, the first real attempt was made by Colonel Beaumont, who bore a tunnel more than a mile long before abandoning the project.

The idea was discussed several times during the 20th century but only in the 1960s did dialogue between France and the UK result in a call for proposals, leading to the drafting of a convention in 1972.

In 1986, Britain and France signed a treaty authorizing the construction of a tunnel running between Folkestone, England, and Calais, France. Digging started in 1988, with tunnel boring machines (TBMs) used for all the tunnels. Five TBMs dug from France, six TBMs dug from the UK.

The tunnel was officially opened for passenger service on May 6, 1994. In 1996, the American Society of Civil Engineers identified the tunnel as one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World.
English Channel Tunnel