After decades of planning, studies, and political processes, it is now official: the Stad Ship Tunnel will be built.
As part of the Revised National Budget, NOK 150 million has been allocated for the project start-up, while the overall cost framework has been set at NOK 8.6 billion. This allows the Norwegian Coastal Administration (Kystverket) to proceed with contract signing and the commencement of construction activities.
The Stad Ship Tunnel will be the world’s first full-scale ship tunnel, cutting through the Stad Peninsula between Moldefjorden and Kjødepollen on Norway’s west coast. The tunnel will provide a safer and more predictable passage for vessels navigating one of the country’s most challenging stretches of coastline, while improving maritime safety, accessibility, and emergency preparedness.
A Historic Milestone for Coastal Norway
The project has been discussed and developed for several decades, and the announcement of construction is being met with great enthusiasm across the Norwegian coast.
«This is a historic day for Coastal Norway. We have worked for a long time to make the Stad Ship Tunnel a reality because of its strategic importance for maritime transport and regional development. We are finally moving from planning to action. This milestone will have an impact far beyond our region,» says Frank Willy Djuvik, Managing Director of Måløy Vekst.
He highlights both the safety and economic benefits of the project.
«The waters around Stad are known as some of the most weather-exposed and challenging along the Norwegian coast. The ship tunnel will create a safer and more efficient transport corridor. At the same time, the construction phase will generate economic activity, jobs, and new opportunities for businesses throughout the region,» says Djuvik.
Significant Economic and Regional Impact
The Stad Ship Tunnel is far more than a transport infrastructure project. The construction is expected to create substantial ripple effects for local businesses, suppliers, the transport sector, tourism, and communities throughout the Sunnmøre and Nordfjord regions.
The project will also strengthen the competitiveness of maritime transport and facilitate the transfer of more cargo from road to sea, supporting both business development and Norway’s climate ambitions.
«This is an investment in the future of Norway’s coastal communities. We look forward to following the project closely and contributing to the opportunities it will create for the entire region,» says Djuvik.
Facts About the Stad Ship Tunnel
- The world’s first full-scale ship tunnel.
- Located through the Stad Peninsula between Moldefjorden and Kjødepollen.
- Approximately 1.7 kilometres long.
- Designed to accommodate vessels up to 16 metres wide and with a draft of up to 12 metres.
- Developed and managed by the Norwegian Coastal Administration (Kystverket).
- NOK 150 million allocated for project start-up in the Revised National Budget.
- Total project cost framework set at NOK 8.6 billion.
With the political agreement now in place, the construction of the Stad Ship Tunnel is finally becoming a reality. A project that has long been regarded as a visionary idea for Norway’s coastline is now moving into the construction phase.