A3 Hindhead Tunnel Blog

Hi Folks

2011-11-14T00:11:00.004Z

Hey strangers!

Long time no blog!

sorry I have not been around much recently been very busy!

As most of you will know it has changed much at Hindhead over the last month or so. I will be going to take some photo's next weekend and upload them onto here.

I am also going to be running a silent auction for a very exciting item I have in my possession. When I went through the tunnel in Febraury 2009 I was given one of the original teeth they used on the diggers when the started diggin the tunnel. The way it will work is that I will set a time limit probably a few weeks. If you are interested then email me at dave.work@hotmail.co.uk with an offer. I will then reply directly to you.

Good luck everybody!

And now the end is near.......

2011-08-21T20:57:00.005+01:00

Hi everyone,

Sorry not been around for a bit, been a bit busy!

Went up to a very quiet Hindhead at rush hour this eveing. As you can see the traffic lights have now been turned off for ever (sob sob not really!) with work due to start on converting them to 2 mini roundabouts in the next week or so.

Also I took a couple of photo's of the work being carried out at the end of Headley Road. This is progressing nicely and should only last for another couple of weeks.

I also drove down to the Gibbet to see what is happening to the old road. It is totally different now, as you can see, and looks nothing like it used to!

Keep on driving..............

Dark side of the moon

2011-08-18T18:14:00.003+01:00

Evening one and all,

Sorry have been uploaded anything for a while, have had a few laptop issues, namely the wife and a can of coke! but lets say no more about that before I explode!

I was sent these from David at 272heroes.com Thanks David they are brilliant!

Must say a big hello to Red Robbo. Thanks for your email mate and the concern! im still alive and kicking!!!

I hope to have some more photos up soon of the work on the old A3, i'm planning on walking up there sunday afternoon.

Keep on driving......................

Drinkies!

2011-08-06T21:17:00.004+01:00

Right you lot

hi everyone

i'm sorry but im goign to have to cancel today - i've woken up with a streaming cold and a massive migraine.

Hopefully we can do it next weekend!

thanks to my wife for putting this on here!

Keep on driving............

Double Tunnel Vision!!

2011-08-06T20:00:00.004+01:00

Hey folks,

Here is a video of the tunnel going through Rouen in France

Anyone notice the similarity between this tunnel and our tunnel????

Keep on driving...........

I'm Back!

2011-08-06T12:46:00.003+01:00

Hey everyone

I'm back home in the UK YAY!

So far have been home for 13 hours and have been through the tunnel 3 times, the last i had a personal escort from the Surrey Chapter of the Hells Angels - thanks guys!

With regards to the meeting tomorrow I will post something on here later tonight once I had squared it with the misses!

Tunnel is brillian so much quicker!

keep on driving...............

Not Long Now

2011-08-01T09:15:00.003+01:00

Bonjour all my lovely readers!

OK so here is a better picture of where I am currently sitting writing this post!

The tent is where myself, the wife and kids are staying and the caravan is the mother in law's, which is god as we can lock from the outside and shut her in! yay!

Only 4 days until I make the 682 mile journey home and finally get to go through the tunnel, can't flipping wait!

I will be going through a similar tunnel at Rouen on the way home so will try and get some pics of that one.

I was thinking of maybe going for a beer on Sunday at the punchbowl. Meet at the Miss James bridge and then walk up for a quick drink. If anyone wants to join me then leave a comment on this post so I know if anyone is going to turn up!

Until Thursday folks,

keep on driving..............

Holiday Blues :(

2011-07-28T10:23:00.002+01:00

Morning everyone

As I write this I am sat in sunny France, eating a pain au chocolate and thinking I should driving through the tunnel!!

I will try and upload some photos when i get sent them but I have very limited internet connection!

Here is a photo of where I am just to make you all jealous!!!

Keep on diggin...............

BBC South Today and Meridian TV

2011-07-21T20:19:00.004+01:00

Howdy people

Just wanted to let you know that despite the fact i'm not around for the opening Meridian TV and BBC South Today came out to do some filming with me over the last couple days, to hopefully include in their news bulletins on tuesday and wednesday next week.

The top picture is of me and Andrew from BBC South Today and the second photo is me and Andrew from Meridian TV.

Can I say a massive thank you to both of you for taking to time to come and film this stuff. I hope you captured my best side!!!!

Keep on diggin...........

The Grand Opening

2011-07-21T18:26:00.002+01:00

Evening everyone,

So here we are literally moments away from the grand opening
I will be sat by the pool crying!

I need someone on Miss James bridge and someone Hazel grove bridge taking plenty of photo's. Who's up for the challenge!

The person that sends me the best photo on the day will win a chocolate bar - wow I here you say!

So come on folks lets make this one of the best days Hindhead has ever seen!

keep on diggin.........

It's Official!!

2011-07-19T16:47:00.002+01:00

Well good afternoon everyone

Well I finally got the official confirmation from the Highways Agency today that the southbound tunnel is going to open next wednesday 27th and the northbound tunnel will open a few days later.

Now i have a problem. I am on holiday from this sunday so am not going to be about for the opening, yes I am totally gutted!!, so I am going to need as many of you a possible out and about taking lots of photo's for me please.

I will upload more details of the HA press release later this evening.

Keep on diggin.................

Help urgently needed!

2011-07-19T16:25:00.001+01:00

Folks,

I'm going to be needed your help more than ever soon.

More details to follow.........

Back to the good old days

2011-07-14T20:05:00.007+01:00

Well hello everybody - long time no speak!

I got sent a link to the Grayshott Village Archive on which i found these fantastic photos

The 1st picture is of the crossroads from around circa 1895 going through to around 1930's

For anyone that wants to read the article about the The Portsmouth Road please click on http://www.grayshott-archive.org.uk/modules.php?name=News&file=article&sid=90 for more info.

I must say a massive thank you to Neil and Richard and the Grayshott Village Archive for allowing me to use these

Keep on diggin.............

Bike Charity

2011-07-12T20:39:00.002+01:00

Evening everyone

Just wanna say a massive thanks you the guys at www.rezurgence.com for fixing my daughters bike tonight.

They are a christain based bike charity who go around schools and youth clubs in Hampshire giving free saftey checks and making small adjustments.

They also do UV sticker applications as well

For more information either click this link, www.rezurgence.com/workbench or click on the link in the links tab on the right.

And before you all comment that this is nothing to do with the tunnel it is a tedious sort of way. Many of you that go and have a look at the tunnel and the works ride your bikes, specially now the weather is getting nicer. What a better time to make sure your all safe and sound.

Keep on diggin.........

Hits Milestone

2011-07-10T21:41:00.003+01:00

Evening one and all

I just want to say thank you to all of you lovely lovely people that read my blog.

Today we hit 100,00 hits!!!!!!

Come on guys lets get that to 150,000!!!!

Thank you all so much.

Keep on diggin.........................

Come fly with me come fly come fly away

2011-07-06T18:09:00.002+01:00

Howdy one and all

I got sent this today from a Haslemere resident who was flying back to Heathrow from toulouse earlier today. He realised they were flying up the A3 and grab his phoen and took this photo. You can clearly see both ends of the tunnel and how it has fitted into the landscape.

Paul thank you so much for not only thinking of taking the photo but also for taking the time to send it in - very very much appreciated!

This has to be my favourite photo so far!

keep on diggin.............

Commentators Dream

2011-07-06T17:05:00.001+01:00

Hey folks,

Great to see so many of you sending in comments, my personal favourite the chap who wants the tunnel open by 3:30am tomorrow morning as he is going to France! classic!

Keep them coming in guys, and as soon as I know anything about opening dates/days/hours/minutes etc etc i will let you all know.

I'm planning on going up the tunnel tonight about 9pm to have a look see what is (not) happening anyone wanna join me?

Keep on diggin............

We'll get by with a little from our freinds

2011-06-28T16:45:00.002+01:00

Afternoon all you lovely people

Hope the weather is not getting too many people down!

As we all know the big grand opening is fast approaching. I am wanting to cover all angles for the blog if possible. Obviously I cannot be in several places at once so I'm trowing a big "PLEASE HELP ME!" please out there.

I am hoping to have 1 person taking photos from near Boundary Road at the north end, 1 person to take photo's from the northern viewing platform, 1 person taking photo's from the Hazel Grove Bridge. I have someone covering the Southern viewing platform/Miss James Bridge area.

If any of you can help then please email me on dave.work@hotmail.co.uk.

I've not had the exact dates confirmed to me yet so anyone of you that offer to help I will try and give you as much warning as possible.

Thank guys your all amazing!!!!!!!

Keep on diggin...............

Well Done's!!!!!!

2011-06-21T08:54:00.002+01:00

Hey everyone

So the big day is drawing ever closing and we are now looking forward to the grand opening!!!

So I would just like to take this opportunity to say a few well done's to everyone.

Firstly thank you and well done to all my loyal followers and readers. Without you guys none of this would have been worth it. Thank you to everyone that has bothered and taken the time to send in photo's and comments. You guys have made this blog a success and you are all wonderful people!

Secondly well done to the the Highways Agency for implementing such an massive project. It is been really well thought through and for keeping everyone so updated on what was going on.

Thirdly well done to everyone to the constructors. You have built a truly remarkable feat of engineering and to such a high standard. To every person that was involved from the tunnelers, the ground workers, painters, electricians, everyone that was involved you all deserve a massive well done.

And finally to everyone else that was involved well done. After finding out Hindhead would be subject to 4 years of major roadworks and delays it really has not been as bad as we all thought it would be.

On behalf of every single person that will go through Hindhead whiteout and problems/delays thank you.

Keep on diggin............

Danger Danger Tunnel Voltage

2011-06-14T21:32:00.003+01:00

Howdy everyone

They had the full scale emergency crash test today and by the looks of it all went well. Click on the link below to have a look at the report from my good freinds at The News.

http://www.portsmouth.co.uk/news/local/east-hampshire/exercise_puts_emergency_response_to_the_test_at_a3_hindhead_tunnel_1_2771955

Less than a month to go before it opens folks

Are we all getting excited??????

Keep on diggin..........

Speed Limits

2011-05-25T21:11:00.002+01:00

Howdy everyone

Right for all of you that have been commenting and emailing me the speed limit in the tunnels will be national. In case of emergencies and the like then speed limit will be reduced down to 40 with a contraflow system in place.

The average speed cameras are there for our safety and to keep traffic moving in a steady flow through.

I find it amazing that people are going to bouycot the tunnel if it was a 40 limit.

Come on guys it's going to make our life better.

Keep on diggin...............

You are being watched!

2011-05-22T21:18:00.005+01:00

Well hello there everyone

Here a few photos from Richard, who was the lucky chap to get the spare ticket I posted about.

They are mainly of the tunnel monitoring systems. The 1st photo looking down from Hazle Grove is a stunning photo.

Well done and many thanks to Richard for sending these in.

Keep on diggin.........

Red Robbo's last ever collection

2011-05-19T22:01:00.005+01:00

Hi everyone!!!

So here we are, as we feel we are coming to the end of the line with the tunnel and the new road due to open soon it's time to say goodbye to someone that has supported this blog from day 1. He has been out and about all in all weathers, even braving thunderstorms to take photo's and send them in.

So we must say a massive massive thank to Red Robbo for your support, loyalty and great comments and praise for this blog, something I have done to bring the tunnel slightly closer to all of you.

Robbo I really appreciate everything you have done for me and this blog and behalf of myself and every single person who reads this blog - thank you, you have been a legend!

Keep on diggin............

p.s. Thats Robbo in the top picture! I know he'll hate having his photo up there but he deserves his moment of glory!

BBC Radio 2

2011-05-16T10:26:00.002+01:00

Hi Folks,

I was on the Jeremey Vine show on Radio 2 yesterday talking about the tunnel.

The interview in an hour and a half into the programme

http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/console/b01130tk

keep on diggin.............

Tunnel Vision 2011 Part 3

2011-05-14T20:49:00.002+01:00

Hi fellow walkers and tunnel lovers

Well what can I say other than WOW, WOW and WOW again. What a fantastic day.

For those lucky few of you that managed to get into the tunnel you witnessed not only a brilliant walk but a massive, I say again, massive feat of engineering brilliance. The tunnel is just incredible. The way that it fits into the landscape is just remarkable!

To all of you that did not/were not able to get tickets for today you have my sympathies. I honestly wish I could have got a ticket for each and very one of you and I hope that by posting these photo's on here helps bring some of the atmosphere and what it was like inside the tunnel today to you all.

I must say a few thank you's and well done's so here goes:

1) Amalie from BBC Surrey radio - an absolute pleasure to meet you today. We had a such a good laugh and any time you need an interview or anything at all just call me/email me I will be more than happy to help out.

2) James Wright from Highways Agency Press Office - Thank you James for making me feel very welcome and being a great host. I will be in touch with you shortly.

3) All the workers at Balfour Beatty - you have done an exceptional job and and made it just perfect. Well done and it was well worth waiting for!

4) All the TV crews at the BBC and ITV that have supported this blog over the last 4 years - Thank you

5) All the guys from the local papers I met today - thank you

6) Finally, and most importantly my wife Fleur -she has had to put up with me banging on about the tunnel for the last 4 years and she is only a few months away from me shutting up!!!!

Tunnel Vision 2011 Part 2

2011-05-14T20:37:00.006+01:00

Tunnel Vision 2011 Part 1

2011-05-14T20:06:00.003+01:00

i gotta a feeling oh ooh that todays gonna be a good day

2011-05-14T06:17:00.003+01:00

Morning one and all

So the day has finally arrived of the much anticipated walk through.

To all of you that have tickets i will see you there. I am going through about 1:15 this afternoon so if anyone of you around then come and say hi!

For all of you that are not going to be there I am genuinly sorry that were unable to get tickets. I know it is only a small concelation but I will try and get some great photo's for you and try and capture what it is really like inside.

Keep on walking..............

When Saturday Comes

2011-05-12T12:44:00.000+01:00

Hey everybody

Hope we are all well

Just a quick one to say that I hope all of you very lucky people that were to get tickets arelooking forward to what will be a spectacular day.

I'm goign to have loads of photo's and some other exciting stuff on the blog next week so keep your eyes peeled.

If you see wandering through then please come and say hi would love to meet some of you that make me doing this blog worthwhile.

until then,

Keep on diggin.............

When 2 tunnels go to war

2011-04-25T20:00:00.004+01:00

Hi people.

Went up the northern end today in the glorious sunshine!

Keep on diggin..............

Walk Through Tickets

2011-04-21T22:01:00.003+01:00

Howdy everyone,

All the tickets for the planeed walk through event are now all sold out. Well done to all the lucky folks that were able to get tickets for the day and very unlucky to the unfortunate ones not to get tickets.

I have had loads of comments from lots of you that experienced problems. I have been in contact with the Hindhead Together team and I hope to be getting a statement from them shortly.

Until then I look forward to meeting lots of you on the day - if you see me walking through then please feel free to come and say hi be great to meet you all!

Keep on diggin.......

Booking Website

2011-04-20T15:22:00.001+01:00

Afternoon everyone,

Gummy's wife here as Gummy is poorly at the moment and no it's not just man flu!

The booking website is now up and running and open. There have quite a few emails stating some of you are having problems.

As I'm sure all of you can appreciate there are a lot of people all trying to book at the same time. Because of the amount of people logging on this is causing the system to slow down. I urge all of you be patient and hopefully as many of you as possible can get tickets.

Good luck!!!

Supertarmacfradeliciousexpeitunneldocious!

2011-04-16T20:57:00.002+01:00

Hey fellow Hindheadians and the like!

Went down to the southern end this morning things are really starting to take shape now.

Although seems a silly place to put a level crossing in picture 2! ha ha

Keep on diggin...........

I meant to do that honestly!

2011-04-16T16:04:00.003+01:00

Hey folks,

Well done to all of you that spotted my deliberate mistake in the previous post!

Of course it should be the new booking website will open Wednesday 20th April not May!!!!

To all of you that noticed it you all win a slap on the back from me!

cheers guys!

Keep on diggin............

More Walk Through Event Info Released

2011-04-14T12:34:00.003+01:00

Howdy fellow Hindheaders!

Some more information regarding the walk through event has been released - please see below:

General admission times on 14th May are 10am until 3:30pm

The ticket web page will go live on Wednesday 20th May - www.hindheadtogether.org.uk/tunnelvision

People who have pre-registered are not guaranteed a ticket

Each individual ticket purchased must be individually named and ID will be required on arrival at the park and ride venue

Tickets are limited due to Health and Safety reasons and will be sold on a first come first served basis

Tickets are £6 for adults and £3 for children, prices are covering the cost of parking and riding to and from the event

The grand prize draw raffle tickets, to win prizes including being amongst the into the tunnel on the day are available from various local outlets in Haslemere, Thursley, Grayshott and Liphook. They are £1 each

Money raised will go the Hindhead Community Fund. This will give grants to organisations in areas local to the tunnel, including Hampshire

The prize draw will be drawn on Tuesday 3rd May

Obviously if I hear or receive any more information I will let you guys know and as always get in touch if you have any questions, to which i will seek answers!!!!!!

Keep on diggin.............

More Walk Through Information

2011-04-08T07:31:00.002+01:00

Hey Folks

I have been given some more information on the walk through event - please read below:

Because of the huge logistical challenge with getting thousands of people on and off site quickly and safely, there has been delays in releasing ticket sales and for that we can only apologise. We assure you that you will be notified in advance of the exact date of ticket sales. This will give details of where and when you can purchase tickets and we thank you for your patience during this time.

Tickets are priced at £6 for adults and £3 for children under 16. The cost will cover all parking charges and the shuttle bus ride to and from the tunnel site from your choice of 9 venues in the local area. You will be asked to choose your preferred time and venue at the time of booking.

All profits will go to a new fund to specifically benefit the communites around the tunnel area. For more information please see www.communityfoundationsurrey.org.uk

Also going into the fund will be all the monies raised from the Grand Draw Prize. Tickets for the draw will be available at various outlets in the towns and villages and prizes include being in the first VIP group to walk into the tunnel on the day!

So there we go folks a little more info for you. Once I am told the booking website is up and running I'll put the link on here.

Also I am going to be asking for your help during the walk through. I am goign to be taking plenty of photo's from inside the tunnel on the day itself but really want you guys to send in yours as well. Lets try and get some nice photo's and also some quirky photo's as well. I might even have a little prize for the best photo so keep your eyes peeled!

Keep on diggin..........

Just the Pill Gill!

2011-03-30T08:43:00.002+01:00

Good morning all you lovely people

Here are some photo's of the northern end taken last weekend by my work colleague Gill, including a reall nice one of the old A3 as we know it.

Many many thanks to Gill for bravley venturing out in the sun!

A few of you have asked me about the booking website for the walkthrough event in may. As soon as it is live I shall post a link on here so keep your eyes peeled!

keep on diggin.............

Bridge over the river A3

2011-03-28T20:49:00.003+01:00

Howdy partners!

The new Miss James Footbridge is now officially open. Went for an early morning stroll down there at the weekend with my little one to have a look

Enjoy!

keep on diggin........

Come Inside

2011-03-24T20:58:00.003Z

Hey folks

Got sent these from an old friend who worked on the tunnel.

Cheers Pat!

Keep on diggin.....

Walk Through Information

2011-03-07T21:02:00.002Z

Hey guys and gals

Good news!!!! I have the walk through information I have been promising you. If I'm honest I've had it a few days but only got round to putting up here!!. Please see below:

As we all know the planned date for the walk through is 14th May 2011. Due to the nature of where the tunnel is located and for health and safety reasons there will be 10 park and ride venues situated at various locations including Haslemere, Liphook, Milford, Thursley amongst others. It will be necessary to book a time for your park and ride slot. Nobody will be allowed into the tunnel without a ticket! More details on this to follow.

With regards to the ticket prices this is currently under review due to the budget cuts imposed by the government. The Hindhead Together team is working very hard to keep these costs as low as possible and I will publish more information about the prices and how to book around the end of march. The cost will cover your entrance into the tunnel and your park and ride fare.

It will be well worth every penny as I know full well from going into the tunnel in February 2009 seeing how amazing it was then!

All funds that are raised, after costs have been covered, will go into the Hindhead Community Fund. Local groups, charities and other organisations can then apply for grants from this fund which not only helps out local organisations and worthwhile causes but also contributes back into the local area

Trust me folks this is a once in a lifetime opportunity and will be a brilliant event and worth every second.

Of course as i soon as i have more information i shall post it on here but if you have any questions or comments please keep sending them in, until then...

Keep on diggin.............

Walk Through information

2011-02-21T20:24:00.002Z

Hey folks,

Just a quickie, I'm hoping to have some information on the walk through on here in the next 2 days

Keep on diggin...........

Vamco ltd

2011-02-16T20:11:00.002Z

Evening folks

As we all know driving can be a dangerous business. Specially on the A3 and other major trunk roads. Having an accident can a worrying and stressful time.

Should the unthinkable happen then I can recommend the following company, Vamco Ltd. They are a local based car accident claim management company.

Need to Make a Car or Bike Accident Claim? Call Vamco Today!
Welcome to Vamco, the home of hassle free compensation claims. Vamco can help
you with your no fault accident claim, car compensation claim or bike accident claim

For more information go to www.vamco.co.uk or click the link opn the left below.

Keep on diggin.........

Just a quickie

2011-02-13T17:34:00.002Z

Howdy folks

Went to the southern end today to take some photo's but dropped my camera in a puddle and now it won't work - oops!

My wife has started a blog on what she makes using fimo - check out the link on left below

More photo's to come soon guys!

Keep on diggin...........

2011-02-13T08:07:00.004Z

Red Robbo went out last weekend although it looks very cold and wet out there.

He took some really good photo's of the Northern end. It's good because things are progressing very quickly now and every time you go it has changed.

Well done Red Robbo!!!!

Keep on diggin............

Museum Exhibition

2011-02-08T22:03:00.002Z

Hey everyone,

Hope we are well and enjoying the little bit of sunshine today, lets hope it stays for my birthday tomorrow!!!

I have been made aware of something quiet exciting which I think you all need to know about. As some of you will be aware their was an exhibition at Haslemere museum asked Balfour to do a display to mark the halfway mark of the works, well there is going to be another one.

The exhibition will run until the 12th March and as always entry is free although the museum does ask for donations, which is really worthwhile to help keep this local attraction going. It will be displaying all the works from start to current through pictures and photo's and will be well worth a look just to see what has actually gone on and how much work and effort has gone in to improve all our lives.

So go along and have a good look as their really is not that long left in the whole project so don't be the one that misses out!

If you have any questions then feel free to email me and i'll seek you answers!

Keep on diggin..........

Nutcombe Come Good

2011-01-18T21:55:00.017Z

Hey folks

Got sent these fantastically brilliant photo's from Red Robbo yesterday. They are of the Southern end and Nutcombe Valley but you can really see how the final phase is become more apparent.

It is starting to feel like th home straight is now in sight and I will have some more information about the walk through up here by the weekend

Thank for the great photo's Red Robbo

Keep on diggin............

Happy New Year

2011-01-02T18:04:00.002Z

Hey everyone,

Just wanted to wish everyone a belated Happy New Year.

I hope all the hangovers are now gone and that you had a safe and enjoyable time.

I hope that 2011 is a great year for everyone and an even bigger one for Hindhead and the A3

Hoping to have lots more info for you guys in the next couple of weeks and am going to be needing your help for something i'm trying organise later in the year but will fill you in nearer the time.

keep on diggin...............

Tunnel Walk-Through

2010-12-13T19:33:00.002Z

Evening all,

I trust we are all well and wrapped up nice and warm!!!!

Just a quick post say that I have had a few emails from people regarding the planned open day at the tunnel next year and what is going to happen.

So you all know I have got in touch with my contacts, who are organising it, for some information on the planned events. Once I know and have got the all clear I shall post more details on here.

Not sure how long it will be so keep your eyes peeled and feel free to email me in the meantime if there is anything else I can be of assistance with!

Also there is an update on the Highways Agency website regarding the traffic management over the Christmas period. They also have some more up to date photo's on there which i am hoping to get on here over the next few days.

keep on diggin............

Walking in a winter tunnel land

2010-12-07T21:13:00.011Z

Howdy folks

Sorry not been on for a while. I took a quick stroll down to Nutcombe earlier today and found a lovely wintry scene. Also they are starting to put the decorative frontage under the bridge and looks like they might be getting ready to do the 2 ends as well.

I only took a few as it was soooooo cold I'm sure I saw a brass monkey looking for a welder!

Anyway should hope to have some very exciting pics on here soon but more to follow on that one!

Keep on diggin.............

Golden Oldies

2010-10-28T23:19:00.004+01:00

Just thought I would look through the archives and find some old pics.

I found these 3 of the southern end just to see how much work has been done and things have changed. I think these were taken towards the beginning of 2008.

Keep on diggin.........

when the weathers fine you reach right up and touch the sky

2010-10-25T16:23:00.011+01:00

Strolled down to the top of the tunnels at the southern end. You really get a perspective of how steep it is from Hazel Grove to the tunnel entrances.

Was lovely just sitting on a tree stump in the sun, listening to the radio on my phone and watching other people work haha

Keep on diggin.................

having a treemendous time with a pair of northern tunnels

2010-10-10T15:53:00.023+01:00

Howdy folks.....

Went for a stroll to see if I could see what they were doing along the punchbowl as it was closed and decided to carry on to the northern end. Things are really starting to take shape and look like they will when the project is finished.

Also there is much more evidence of the trees they are clearing now along the punchbowl.

Also it was the most glorious day out there today, sunny and hot, perfect for a stroll in the woods.

Also I want to say hi to the 2 Balfour guys who were manning the stop post by the national trust cafe. Was a pleasure to meet you guys and cheers for the chat!

Keep on diggin..................

2010-10-09T20:41:00.005+01:00

Took my little snotface down to the southern end today as she wanted to play in the woods for a little while so thought I'd take a few pics.

If you go across the hazel grove bridge and look towrds the tunnels, you can clearly see where the road is going to be. Also looks like they are getting ready to lay the main road itself.

Keep on diggin..............

BBC Surrey Breakfast Show

2010-10-02T20:54:00.002+01:00

Happy weekend to all you lovely people!!!

Just a quick note for any of you that missed the Joe Talbot breakfast show this morning on BBC Surrey they interviewed myself and Paul Arnold, Highways Agency Project Manager, about the closure of the A3 this weekend for tree felling work. Click the link below to listen.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/p00b7y10/Joe_Talbot_02_10_2010/

Paul Arnold's interview is exactly 1h09M53S into the show

My interview is exactly 2h.17m.16s into the show.

I'm hoping to get some photo's on Monday of the work they have done.

Keep on diggin................

Highways Agency Update & BBC Surrey

2010-09-29T21:46:00.002+01:00

Hi there folks

Hope you are all ok and not letting this pathetic weather spoil your days

The Highways Agency website has published some more information on the planned closures of the A3 from the national trust car park to Thursley thius weekend and the following weekend . Click the link below to see whats going on.

http://www.highways.gov.uk/roads/projects/13919.aspx

Also I am going to be on radio saturday morning giving my opinion about the tunnel and the weekend closures. Please listen in if you want to, It's on BBC Surrey (104.6fm) at 8:15(ish) on Saturday morning.

Keep on diggin...............

Level Pegging

2010-09-26T10:21:00.009+01:00

Just a few of the southern end. Hopefully some more of the Northern End to come very soon.

If anyone is heading up let me know if they fancy a walking partner!

Keep on diggin........

Official Highways Agency Update

2010-08-12T22:54:00.004+01:00

Evening Ladies and Gents,

For those of you that don't receieve the Highways Agency updates here is the most current newsletter.

I must say a massive thank you to Ian for obtaining permission for me to use this images. Also I must a big thank you to the Highways Agency for granting permission.

If you click on the images they should open up in a larger format to read, if not then please click on the link below to view the PDF document yourself.

http://www.highways.gov.uk/roads/documents/A3_Hindhead_Newsletter_14_web.pdf

Keep on diggin.......

Alternative Angles

2010-08-05T23:48:00.013+01:00

Hello there everybody!

Walked from the top of the tunnel round to the viewing platform today making most of the sun!!!

They have started to fill in between the tunnels now which was fun to watch for a little while.

Keep your comments and photo's coming!

Keep on diggin...........

Inside the tunnel

2010-07-26T22:34:00.003+01:00

Evening ladies and gents

For anyone that did not see the news today, the tunnel was featured on BBC South Today this evening.

Click on the link below, the tunnel item is approx 13:01 minutes in, of course feel free to watch the rest of the programme as well!

http://www.bbc.co.uk/mediaselector/ondemand/england/realmedia/southtoday/southampton/southtoday?bgc=C0C0C0&nbram=1&lang=en&nbwm=1&bbram=1&ms3=6&ms_javascript=true&bbcws=1&size=16x9&bbwm=1

Keep on diggin............

Slideshow no show more pics to follow

2010-07-02T21:33:00.029+01:00

Evening one and all

What suffering I have to go through for you guys! it has taken me 2 days to finally extract the photos form the kodak album (see previous post!) and then 5 hours to get them the best ones uploaded! I've even had to sit through my drunk wife and her drunk best friend singing badly on singstar! ARGH!

Anyway here are the best ones from the album, if you want to view the rest of the album email me and I'll send you the password.

Anyway there you go done my best!

Keep on diggin................

That's one hell of a walk!!!!!

2010-07-01T23:00:00.004+01:00

Evening guys and gals

Hope we are all ok and looking forward to weekend!!

I was sent a gallery of 131 of the most amazing photo's I've ever been sent (no offence to previous or current contributors I love you all really!)

They are in a kodak gallery so click on the link to view them. Copy and paste this into your browser:

http://www.kodakgallery.co.uk/ShareLanding.action?UV=355680094148_7992951641233&c=1gdc2xifd.2x60hmsq9&x=1&y=t1pt9e&localeid=en_GB&sourceid=2533302&UV=355680094148_7992951641233

Many many many thanks to Mark for sending these in and your kind words in your email my friend.

Let me know what you think!

Keep on diggin...........

From one end to the other

2010-05-26T12:31:00.023+01:00

Here are some up to date photo's from both the northern and southern ends.

I must say a massive thanks to Gordon for sending these in and answering my rallying call for some help!

Keep them coming guys

Keep on diggin............

Help Needed

2010-05-24T08:55:00.003+01:00

Hey there guys and gals

As some of you may have noticed I have not been able to update this blog as much as I would have liked over the last few months. Unfortunately I have been extremely unwell and am also recovering from an operation which means I can't get out and about and do much walking at the moment.

Anyone that is able to get out there and get some photo's or stories of how the tunnel is coming along into me would be really helpful.

Hopefully I'll be back on my feet in the month or so and will be back out there providing you, the loyal followers, many many more photo's

Please either use the link on the left to send me stuff or email me directly on: dave.work@hotmail.co.uk

Cheers folks and I look forward to receiving some top photo's!

Many thanks

Gummybear

Bramshott Underpass

2010-04-08T21:47:00.013+01:00

Hey everybody

Hope you all had a really nice Easter and are recovering from too much chocolate!

Seeing as it was a nice day thought i'd take my first ever trip to the Bramshott underpass - considering it's been open for ages that is really lame!!!!!

Anyway more to come soon

Keep on diggin.......

In, Out, In, Out shake it it all about

2010-03-25T19:52:00.002Z

Hey everyone

The tunnel was featured again on BBC South Today, showing some really really good stuff from inside the tunnel.

Here's a link if you want to have a butchers in case you missed it!

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/8585796.stm

Keep on diggin......

Bridge Over The River Mud

2010-03-22T15:08:00.007Z

Afternoon all

Went a quick stroll down the southern end to see how things were coming along.

Miss James footbridge is coming along nicely as you can see.

More to come soon

Keep on diggin..............

Soggy Sunday Strolls

2010-02-16T22:42:00.006Z

Hello everybody!

Thank you all for all your get well wishes - good news I'm on the mend now and should be feeling a lot better soon!

Red Robbo has been out and about again and took some nice soothing photo's of the southern end. I applaud you for venturing out in the snow!

Keep on diggin......................

Insider Information!

2010-02-09T13:20:00.003Z

Afternoon everybody - it's my birthday today so hope your all having a good day like me!!!!!

I was sent this picture in this morning showing the inside of the South Bound tunnel.

Many thanks to Nick Catford of Subterranea Brittanica for sending it in to me.

Keep on diggin................

January Update

2010-01-29T23:44:00.005Z

Happy new year everybody!!!!!

My apologies for taken my time getting some new pics up here but I have been a bit poorly!

I have had these sent in to me which show the current position of the Northern end, the Southern end and also Miss James footbridge. I have heard a rumour that this is due to be completed around Easter time but will keep you updated.

I'm going to be getting out and about in the next week or so to get some photo's.

Keep on diggin......................

Jeremy Hunt MP & Hindhead Together

2010-01-11T20:45:00.002Z

HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYBODY!

I hop.e you all had a pleasant and safe new years and you are all enjoying the snow - although it can go now we have had enough of it!

Over the Christmas and new year periods I have been in contact with some influential people involved with whats going on in Hindhead.

First is Jeremy Hunt MP, the MP for South West Surrey. I asked him what he thought about the tunnel and how things are going. This is his response:

"I campaigned hard for a tunnel at this section of the A3 - as did my predecessor Virginia Bottomley - and it featured as a high priority amongst my constituents in my survey of key issues for South West Surrey a couple of years ago. I am delighted that the A3 tunnel is taking shape and is on course to be ready in time for the Olympic Games. It really is a much needed addition to the road structure and will make a massive difference not only in terms of improved transport links but also for the environment as we close off the old A3 to Hindhead and give that land back to the National Trust. I am looking forward to its completion and the positive impact it will have on the local area, especially Hindhead which will finally see the curse of the dreaded A3 traffic jams lifted once and for all."

My thanks go to Jeremy Hunt for taking time out of his busy schedule to send this to me.

Secondly I have been in contact with Caroline White from Hindhead Together. Here are some details about who Hindhead Together are and what they are currently doing.

Hindhead Together is a partnership consisting of 8 agencies involved in, or with an interest in, the A3 tunnel and the once in a lifetime opportunity that comes with the completion of this £371m project.

Hindhead Together is working to secure a brighter future for Hindhead area by working to maximise the community, environment, landscape and ecological benefits brought about by the tunnel project.

The partnership comprises of several local, regional and national organisations with a stake in the future of Hindhead village and between them they are striving to create a fantastic destination with sound links to the other communities in the area in order to serve the current and future residents, businesses and visitors to a high standard.

Hindhead Together is working with the Highways Agency in order to look at the public realm improvements that will be made to the section of London Road between the current traffic lights and the National Trust car park. Once the tunnels are opened in 2011, the A3 will be closed and stopped up in Hindhead. This will both necessitate and enable many changes in function, structure and appearance.

It is vital at this time to start thinking about what those changes might incorporate. It is also key to explore how the changes will lead the owner on the either side to develop proposals for their own sites.

Looking Forward

The excitement surrounding the opening of the tunnel and indeed the landscape restoration and completion of the entire project is something that the whole community is keen to join in with. With this in mind there will be 2 events, coordinated by Hindhead Together.

The first will be in Spring 2011, before the tunnels are officially in use as a highway. It will be a pre-opening celebration, involving the local community, organisations and stakeholders in a charity weekend event or events. It will allow activities like walking, running, cycling etc that will not be permitted when the tunnels are open to traffic. The second is an event to celebrate the landscape restoration and environmental benefits of reuniting the Devils Punchbowl and Hindhead Commons. This is expected to take place in late summer 2011.

Hindhead Together is in the early planning stages of the first event and is working hard to ensure that, within the guidelines of the Highways Agency, everyone will have a fantastic celebration.

If anyone is interested in obtaining more information about Hindhead Together, or the work they do, please visit their website which can be found at: http://www.surreyhills.org/Hindhead-Together.aspx

If anyone does not receive their newsletter send me your email address (which will not be published on here or given to anyone else) and I shall email you a copy.

Finally I would like to thank Caroline White for her continued support and look forward to working with her and the Hindhead Together team in the future.

Keep your photo's and comments coming in and lets make 2010 a brilliant and exciting time for Hindhead!

Keep on diggin..............

Thank You and Merry Christmas

2009-12-24T15:20:00.002Z

Hey everybody

Just a quick thank you to everyone that has sent in photo's and comments throughout 2009 and to everybody who just took the time to have a look. I could have not made this as popular without you!!

Have a very Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year

Stay safe everybody

Keep on diggin..........

Radio featured the internet star!

2009-12-23T20:55:00.003Z

Hiya everybody

As stated yesterday I was on BBC Surrey radio this morning talking about the tunnel and the blog.

Here is the link to the show - I am on exactly 48.00 minutes in.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/p005m14v/Surrey_with_Nick_Wallis-23_12_2009/

Happy listening!

Keep on diggin.............

BBC Surrey

2009-12-22T22:45:00.002Z

Forget to mention that I will be on BBC Surrey Radio tomorrow morning talking about the blog and the tunnel. I am due to be on air at roughly 7:50am

Tune in if you can if not then I shall be posting a link on here later in the day for it.

Keep on diggin.........

Walkies!

2009-12-22T19:49:00.019Z

Thought i would go for a wander to burn off the big dinner and ended up going all over the place!!!!!!

Take care in the snow and ice folks!

Keep on diggin.................

Slip(pery) Road

2009-12-18T21:31:00.011Z

Tom took the trouble and effort to go out for a walk in the snow earlier today and took these excellent photo's. They are from the new slip road heading south towards Liphook and also looking back towards the Tunnel entrances.

A superb collection again Tom well done

Keep on diggin.........

Walking in a Winter Workerland

2009-12-18T19:52:00.003Z

So everyone the snow is here so I took a slow walk down too the Southern end, braving the freezing cold and bitter wind just for the pleasure of you guys!

Keep on diggin..........

Sign Of The Times

2009-12-14T19:58:00.006Z

Tom from Tomodo has sent me these pics of some of the new road signs and the new road looking south from Hazel Grove.

Excellent photo's Tom good work!

Just a word of warning to everyone the weather is set to get worse through the week with some (possibly heavy) snow due by the end of the week so drive carefully please everyone and stay safe.

Keep on diggin............

Nutcombe Sunday Morning

2009-12-14T02:25:00.008Z

Red Robbo has been out and about again taking fantastic photo's in the process. These are of Nutcombe down showing the scaffolding around Miss James footbridge. Also of the new slip road we will use to get on the new A3 to travel through the tunnel heading northbound.

Also as you may have seen, for those of you that have been southbound down the A3 recently the new road between Hazel Grove and Liphook is now nearing completion and traffic is due to be moved over sometime in the next couple of weeks if not sooner. Just be aware though that there are average speed cameras all the way down there so lets be sensible with our speed folks, not just because of them, but also during these cold months when the weather is not that great!

Keep your photo's coming guys.

Keep on diggin.............

The Nostalgia Bug Must Be Catching!

2009-12-13T18:20:00.012Z

Red Robbo has caught the nostalgia bug as well as he has sent me these fantastic archive photo's of Boundless Road area and also of Nutcombe Downs area.

Really gives you a perspective of how things have changed - excellent photo's Robbo well done!

Keep on diggin...........

Haslemere Herald

2009-12-12T23:00:00.002Z

Hi guys and gals

Just to let you know the tunnel is featured on the front page of the Haslemere Herald this week.

There is also a little bit about the blog. I must say thank you to Daniel Gee at the Herald for including a bit about this blog.

Keep on diggin........

Feeling Nostalgic

2009-12-12T21:24:00.004Z

I was feeling a little nostalgic today so thought I would find some photo's showing life before the tunnel project was started. The top one is a photo of the Hindhead crossroads which was taken in 1958! Lets hope Hindhead is this as quiet as this once the tunnel is opened!

The second is of the the Northern end just after they had started to clear the trees and prepare the access roads. I could not find one of before that unfortunately.

The bottom one is of the Southern end before any tress had been cleared or any prep work done.

As you can see things have dramatically changed over the last 2 years!!!!!

Keep on diggin..........

Follow the new built road

2009-12-10T19:06:00.014Z

I was lucky enough to actually have been driven to Bordon a couple of days ago so I took the chance to take some pics from Hazel Grove roundabout down to the Spaniard.

I managed to get some good shots, my favourite being the 1st one looking down to the Southern Tunnel entrances through the fog.

Since I took these 2 days ago they have stared to paint the new white lines on the road. I don't think it'll be long before we get the excitement of driving down it!!!!

Keep on diggin..........

Freezing cold walk to the Northern End

2009-12-06T17:16:00.013Z

I went for a walk up to the Northern Portal this afternoon and my goodness was it cold! I'm sure I saw a brass monkey looking for a welder!

Things are coming on nicely. They are nearing completion of the north bound tunnel entrance and the new road is really taking shape and you can see quiet clearly the route it is going to be taking.

A word of warning though - if you are going down to have a look be really really careful walking down the hill. It is very muddy and very slippery - I nearly fell over about 10 times, one time headbutting a tree!!!!!

More pics to come soon of the new road from Hazel Grove down to the Spaniard.

Keep on diggin................

I'm on the news!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2009-12-03T20:04:00.002Z

For those of you that never got to watch it or just want to see it here is the link to the video of my appearance on BBC South Today talking about the tunnel and the blog.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/8393977.stm

Clicking on the link will take you directly to the video while I await permission from the BBC to upload the video directly

Just so you know it's not all glitz and galmour for me seconds after we filmed that yesterday it chucked it down with rain and I got soaked! all for the love of bringing this to you guys!

Keep on diggin...........

BBC South Today Tomorrow

2009-12-02T18:13:00.007Z

The blog and the tunnel is going to be featured again on BBC South Today tomorrow. We did some filming down at the Southern Viewing Platform and also at home. I must say it was a privilege to meet Paul Clifton again also I must say thank you to Paul Martin, the cameraman (media-attention.co.uk well worth a look), who made me look good - granted a difficult job but he earned his money! The item will be on the breakfast, lunchtime and early evening news programmes. I will post a link on here once it has aired sometime tomorrow evening.

There is massive change down there now with lots of scaffolding being put up around Miss James footbridge and the new road from Hazel grove down passed the Spaniard is really coming along with the new road signs being put up and the new fencing going up quickly as well.

More pictures to come soon.

Keep on diggin..........

Old but classic

2009-11-26T20:00:00.002Z

I was sent this by one of the nice guys at Balfours. It is a great picture of Betsy at work in the tunnel on breakthrough day. Can't believe that was nearly a year ago already!

More pictures soon to come of Hazel Grove and the advancements of Miss James footbridge.

Keep on diggin..............

My Tunnel Visit

2009-11-18T15:09:00.018Z

Today I was very privileged and honoured to be invited down to the tunnel to have a look around and take some photo's.

I was shown round "Betsy" who is 1 of 3 Liebherr R944 Tunnel Excavators. She was used to dig out the Southbound tunnel. All 3 tunnel excavators were made purely for this project and are completely bespoke.

Once inside the tunnel you get a real perspective of the shear size of the project and what a fantastic job Balfour Beatty and all the other contractors have done. Not only in actually digging the tunnels and surrounding areas but making it a very safe working environment, they have gone nearly a million man hours accident free, to minimise disruption to locals residents and in keeping us informed and updated on progress thus far.

To be inside the tunnels was just amazing and to all of you who have said it does not look big enough - trust me it is!

Work inside the both tunnels continue furiously day and night and you can really see why. I got to go through one of the many cross sections between the 2 tunnels that will be used in case of emergencies.

The tunnels are due to be filled in up to road level in the near future, using spoil and muck from the Hazel Grove cutting. They had to dig about 5 - 6 feet lower than required in order to install drainage, power cables and safety systems. Also every few hundred yards they have air quality monitoring stations to make sure the air in the tunnel is safe to work in.

"Betsy" is going to be on display outside the main compound entrance for a limited time and is well worth stopping off to have a look at her. She is a phenomenal piece of machinery, seeing her close up, you can really appreciate what a huge effort diggin the tunnels were. I can honestly say that once this project is completed and opened it is going to make a massive difference to Hindhead and the quality of life in Hindhead.

I must say a massive massive thank you to everyone at Balfour Beatty who made my visit today possible and made me feel so welcome.

Keep on diggin............

Haslemere Museum & "Betsy"

2009-11-12T12:10:00.003Z

Morning Everybody

Just a quick note to let you all know that there is currently a Tunnel exhibition being held at Haslemere Museum. the exhibition will run until the 21st November and it gives you an insight into how well they are doing, some of the problems they have had to face and much more besides.

Also as of yesterday and for a limited time only, until a new home can be found for her, "Betsy" one of the 3 machines that was used to dig the tunnel will be on display outside the visitor centre at the main compound on the southbound carriageway, just north of Hindhead. For a small contribution to Muscular Dystrophy, which is Balfour Beatty's annual charity they can arrange for the cab to be unlocked for viewings and photo's. Please contact me through this website and i can forward any viewings to Balfour Beatty. Once I have permission I should able to put a either a direct contact number or email address to arrange viewings. This is a very rare opportunity and one not to be missed.

I have a viewing arranged and should have some very very exciting photo's to come next week, not just of Betsy but much more besides!

As always keep your photo's and comments coming.

Keep on diggin..........

Sunday Morning Chills

2009-10-13T08:57:00.017+01:00

Red Robbo braved the early morning cold to get these excellent photo's as always. These are a collection looking at the entrance to the Southern Portals and also looking towards and down from the Hazel Grove Junction.

Quick note on myself I am now nearly fully recovered from my illness and should be able to get back out and about to take some more photo's soon.

Keep on diggin..........

Boundless Road Update

2009-09-20T23:14:00.013+01:00

Here is an update set of photo's looking out from the northern portals to the A3 and back towards the tunnel entrances. AS you can see the valley has now been filled in and looks like is almost at road level.

Many many thanks to red Robbo for some more excellent photo's.

Sorry for the delay in the next post guys but I have been (still am) quite poorly so getting on and doing it has been a struggle!

Keep on diggin............

Highways Agency Pictures

2009-08-21T16:02:00.004+01:00

Hey guys and gals i'm back from my holiday now so time to update things I think.

Here are 3 photo's, 1 from inside the tunnel and 2 ariel photo's showing the New Hammer Lane junction and the whole route from the Southern end down passed Hammer Lane and onto towards Liphook.

Imust say a very big thank you to the Highways Agency for not only taking these brilliant photo's but also for very kindly giving me permission to use them.

Keep on diggin........

Boundless Lane Re-opened!

2009-08-10T19:02:00.009+01:00

Boundless road is now completed and has re-opened on friday

Many thanks to Richard for the fantastic photo's - I'm off for a drive down there tonight!

Keep on diggin..................

Video

2009-07-27T18:04:00.001+01:00

For those of you that have not seen this yet here is the video of a rip through the tunnel.

http://www.portsmouth.co.uk/newshome/Tunnel-vision-comes-to-video.2921229.jp

Click on the link and press play

Many thanks to the The News and the very nice gentleman I met at Royal Surrey hospital today.

Keep on diggin.............

More From Red Robbo

2009-07-06T23:28:00.016+01:00

Many thanks to Red Robbo for these pictures

Keep on diggin.............

Red Robbo has fixed his camera!

2009-06-12T19:26:00.005+01:00

Red robbo has fixed his camera and taken some good pics looking towards the Southern End from Hazel Grove bridge.

Things are really moving down there now and wont be long before they are at road level I should imagine.

Keep on diggin............

Come fly with me, come fly, come fly away.........

2009-05-26T20:35:00.004+01:00

These have to be 2 of the best photo's I have ever put on here. Dave has been up in his little plane again and took some overhead photo's during his flyby.

If you ever need a passenger Dave let me know!!!!

Keep on diggin......................

Northern End

2009-05-25T20:28:00.007+01:00

Some nice photo's from Red Robbo of the Northern end and surrounding areas. If they look a little funny he said it was something to do with the extremely bright sunlight doing funny things with his digital camera?!?! Well that's his excuse anyway haha!!

Keep your pics and photo's coming

Keep on diggin..........................

Hazle Grove & Hammer Lane

2009-05-25T18:41:00.011+01:00

Here are some pictures of when I took a wander down to Hazle Grove and Hammer Lane. I was only going to go to the Southern End but went on a bit of a mission instead!!!!

Some more pics to come from Reb Robbo tonight of the Northern End so stayed tuned folks.

Keep on diggin...........

Southern End

2009-05-09T13:38:00.016+01:00

Went for a wander down the Sotuhern portal today as not been down for a while

Sorry for the long time in between posts but now i'm back, your back, we are all back YAY!!

Good progress being made and they have stared prelimary work on the Miss James footbridge so more pics of that to come soon

Keep your pictures and comments coming people

Keep on diggin..........

2009-04-12T17:32:00.015+01:00

I went for a walk down to the Northern End Portal, then onto Boundless Road and back up the A3 and back to Hindhead

Anyone know a good remedy for sore legs?!?!?!?!?

Keep on diggin.........