Civil engineers will meet with construction, transportation, and infrastructure specialists
in Antwerp following the city's successful bid to host the World Tunnel Congress 2027.
It is the first time Belgium has hosted the annual event, which typically attracts around 3,000 delegates to share
knowledge, showcase innovations, and discuss the future of tunnelling.
Arnold Dix, president
of the International Tunnel Association said Belgium’s blend of
heritage, modern technology, innovative engineering, and cultural significance helped
Antwerp win the bid.
Speaking on behalf of the Belgian Tunnel Association (ABTUS-BVOTS), Johan Mignon and
Bart De Pauw added that Antwerp’s Oosterweel project, an underground ring
road in Antwerp, with its various tunnel complexes, had been ‘an asset in our
candidacy.’
Antwerp’s deputy mayor
Koen Kennis explained that winning the World
Tunnel Congress 2027, “not only reflects our city's capacity and readiness for
large-scale international gatherings but also complements our strategic vision
of showcasing Antwerp as a prime destination for global professional events.
“Keeping
in mind Antwerp currently is the stage of some of Europe’s biggest roadworks
the World Tunnel Congress comes at a perfect time in a perfect place.
"The
congress aligns perfectly with our commitment to advancing industry knowledge
and technological innovations across a wealth of sectors.”
The announcement
was made at the World Tunnel Congress 2024 in Shenzhen, China last week. Next year's event is taking place in Stockholm and a year later it travels to Montreal.
The Belgian
Tunnel Association (ABTUS-BVOTS), in collaboration with the International
Tunnelling and Underground Space Association (ITA), will act as the primary
organisers of the event, whilst AIM Group Belgium has been appointed as PCO.
