This talk will narrate the history of the Channel Tunnel through the 18th & 19th centuries, featuring the proposals that were put forward over this period, up to the final decision to build a tunnel. It will describe the main design features of the tunnel, the problems and issues encountered, the build process of the tunnels and cross passages, the ventilation and cooling systems and the dynamics of running a fast train through a narrow tunnel.

It will also outline describe the communications system and the speaker’s personal role in the project. It will end with some fun events that occurred once the tunnel was open.

It is in the form of a PowerPoint slide show, with lots of pictures and diagrams to explain the elements

About the speaker: 

Bob spent 48 years in the Telecommunications and IT business sectors, starting as an Apprentice Technician with BT, through to IT Consultancy and Company Director”.

He  has designed and implemented many corporate networks around the world for major companies including Citicorp, Cisco, British Gas, BT, Dun & Bradstreet, Unisys, CSC and Barclays, and personally managed many major projects for the same corporate clients including ‘The broadcasting of Parliament’ and ‘The Channel Tunnel’.