Britain’s longest tunnel could feature 18 miles of fake palm trees, clouds and grass verges to keep drivers awake
Plans are under way to make driving through the northern tunnel a relaxing experience
DEVELOPERS for Britain’s longest underground tunnel are considering lining it with artificial palm trees, attractive grassy verges and fake clouds to prevent drivers from suffering psychological problems.
A study into the plans for the 18 mile tunnel stretching between Manchester and Sheffield revealed that ministers are brainstorming unconventional ways to avoid “claustrophobia, disorientation and tiredness.”
Inspiration for the project has come from two existing tunnels- one in Norway and one in China.
The Lærdal Tunnel in Norway is 15.23 miles long and takes 20 minutes to drive through.
They use blue and yellow lights to imitate sunrise in order to keep drivers relaxed as they pass through.
It is described in local guides as having a “romantic ambience” and it has even played host to a number of weddings and parties.
The Zhongnanshan Tunnel in China drops to below 1,500 metres below ground and uses fake clouds and palm trees to keep drivers calm.
The British government have described their project as the most ambitious road project since the creation of the motorways.
Their research revealed that: “Proper use of cavern spaces is one of the most effective ways to relieve travellers' fears and that the colours, lighting and patterns used in [Norway's Lærdal] tunnel help to mitigate the effects of claustrophobia, disorientation and tiredness.”
There are concerns that the tunnel, which will be the longest in the world, could “psychological difficulties” for drivers.
Ministers now plan to commission a further study into the behaviours of drivers while in long tunnels in order to account for all these issues when finalising the design.
Transport minister John Hayes said: “I want people in the north of England to benefit from quicker, more reliable journeys.
“Today’s study brings us a step closer to building a Trans-Pennine road tunnel – it would be the most ambitious project since the construction of the first motorways 50 years ago."