As a result, Femern A/S is joining forces with German and Danish geodetic authorities for the purpose of establishing a special height system for the project.

Currently, there is a difference of between 2-5 cm in the height measurements between Fehmarn in Germany and Lolland in Denmark because the two countries operate different systems. The new, unique positioning system for Fehmarnbelt will, however, be fully compatible between height measurements for the project and on the islands of Lolland and Fehmarn.

First, an inspection of the existing fixed points between Puttgarden and Burg on Fehmarn and between Holeby and Rødbyhavn on Lolland will be carried out. These fixed points are usually in the form of a bolt attached to a building.

The team from the National Survey and Cadastre agency in Denmark will undertake  the work in both countries – in Germany on behalf of the German authorities.

During visual inspections on March 10 and 11, 2009, technicians will check the fixed points’ condition and accessibility. Between March 24 and March 31, 2009, they will also undertake a check measurement of the points. The task will be carried out by a motorcade of four vehicles.

Following the check measurement,  a number of new fixed points will be established on both sides of the Fehmarnbelt.

Four of the new points - two on each side of Fehmarnbelt - will serve as reference stations for receiving, adjusting and forwarding positioning signals from GPS systems (Global Positioning Systems).  This will provide safe and accurate positioning-fixing for the future construction work.

Each reference station will be placed in a small enclosed area with the transmitter and receiver mounted on a concrete pole. The transmitting strength will be comparable to that of a mobile phone.

The initial planning work for Fehmarnbelt link will extend over the next three to four years after which the actual construction work will begin.

The aim is for the fixed link across the Fehmarnbelt to be ready for commissioning in 2018.

For any further information, please contact Project Manager Jens Kammer, Femern A/S tel: + 45 33 41 63 09