The recent completion of the Tyne Tunnel remediation project marks a significant achievement in enhancing the safety and longevity of a critical piece of the North East’s infrastructure. At the heart of this complex undertaking was Isoler Ltd, a Durham-based specialist in fire protection and building integrity. Our team played a crucial role in delivering essential fire safety upgrades, bringing decades of expertise to a project that demanded precision, resilience, and unwavering commitment.
A Complex Challenge in a Live Environment
The Tyne Tunnel project was no small feat. Spanning over 57 weeks and requiring more than 48,000 working hours, the remediation was a highly complex and challenging endeavor. To minimise disruption to the thousands of commuters who use the tunnel daily, our teams worked tirelessly through day and night shifts, with operations running from Friday night through to early Monday morning.
Our appointment by MGL Group, working alongside Bouygues Travaux Publics, placed us at the forefront of the project’s fire protection strategy. The challenge was to deliver a successful and safe project, a task expertly managed by our Project Manager, Richard Scaife, who ensured the entire process was completed with zero accidents. This achievement is a testament to the dedication and professionalism of our skilled teams.
Enhancing Fire Safety with Specialist Solutions
Our primary role in the project involved the installation of Aestuver fire-rated board. This critical work was carried out across key areas of the tunnel, including the soffit, crash wall, and gallery wall. These boards are not just a simple building material; they are a vital component of a passive fire protection system. Their primary function is to create robust fire compartmentation by acting as a barrier, containing the fire to a specific area and preventing its spread. This is crucial for a structure like the Tyne Tunnel, as it slows the progression of a blaze, giving both commuters and emergency services valuable time to react.
As fire safety specialists, our work was about more than just applying a product; it was about providing a comprehensive solution to protect a vital public asset. The tunnel, originally built in the 1960s, required modern fire protection to meet today’s rigorous safety regulations. Our fire safety solutions were designed to create safe, fire-resistant zones, thereby protecting both the structure and, most importantly, the people who use it. This required a deep understanding of the tunnel’s unique structure and the environmental challenges of a live, operational site.
Our contribution as fire safety specialists was a key component of the overall remediation plan. The project’s success was dependent on the seamless integration of various upgrades, and our work on fire safety measures complemented the efforts of other contractors who were focused on structural repairs and mechanical upgrades. By protecting the tunnel’s structural integrity from the damaging effects of fire, we helped ensure the tunnel’s longevity and safety for years to come.
A Legacy of Safety and Expertise
The successful completion of the Northbound Tyne Tunnel remediation in August 2025, ahead of its extended timeline, is a source of great pride for Isoler. It demonstrates our capability to deliver on large-scale infrastructure projects while maintaining the highest standards of safety and workmanship. Our involvement has not only enhanced the tunnel’s resilience but has also reinforced our position as a leading provider of fire protection and building integrity services in the UK.
If you have a project that requires the expertise of trusted fire safety specialists, we would be happy to help. Learn more about our services by visiting our website.
