What happened to the Brynglas Tunnels in 2011?

On 26 July 2011 at around 08:30 a lorry caught fire inside the westbound Brynglas tunnel in Newport, Wales. The traffic was at a slow pace so commuters were able to flee to safety - there were no casualties.

The tunnels measure 366 metres in length using a technique called ‘bore hole’; a system of construction that was out of date before the tunnels were complete. During construction the technique generated problems for surrounding houses which had to be demolished due to structural weaknesses.

How did the Brynglas Tunnels fire start?

The source of ignition is unknown but the fire began in a lorry. The driver attempted to release the cargo but unfortunately as the seriousness of the situation became clear they were forced to leave the tunnel.

The vehicle remained inside while the heat intensified and surrounded the lorry, causing its tyres to explode.

What can the industry learn from the Brynglas Tunnels fire?

There were no fatalities, however, had commuters been trapped inside the tunnel it would have been very different. The closure of the tunnels due to the incident caused considerable delays in both directions. An assessment of the structure due to the intense heat exposure and explosion pressures was carried out.

Upgrades of the tunnels were planned at a cost of £380m by 2035.