Road tunnels bring their own set of fire protection challenges, and Melbourne's City Link Tunnels are a great example of thoughtful, code-compliant design in action. With more than 45 years of experience, DKnapp Fire Design Pty Ltd (DKFD) has contributed to some of Victoria's most significant tunnel projects, helping keep drivers and infrastructure safe.
Fire Protection Design for Victoria's Tunnels
City Link Tunnels 1 & 2, Melbourne
Designed With Drivers in Mind
The City Link Tunnels form part of Melbourne's freeway system, linking the city to the south eastern freeways. A short section of surface roadway connects the two tunnels, which were built in separate stages years apart. Both form part of Victoria's tolled road network, so tolls apply when you use them.
What makes the fire protection design worth a closer look is the careful balance between water supply, pressure control and safety. Here's how it comes together:
What makes the fire protection design worth a closer look is the careful balance between water supply, pressure control and safety. Here's how it comes together:
Safety inside a tunnel goes beyond the fire systems themselves. All infrastructure above the tunnel lighting, including fire, electrical and communications services, is painted matt black. This keeps drivers' eyes on the road ahead rather than the equipment overhead. It's a simple but effective philosophy adopted across road tunnels, and it reflects the level of detail we bring to every project.
