Investigations

The environment on land as well as at sea has been the subject of detailed surveys in order to avoid or minimise negative impact on the environment both during the construction phase and the subsequent operational phase. Moreover, an environmental sensitivity analysis has provided important input for the proposals for the future alignment.

Soil conditions have been mapped out in great detail and geotechnical tests will be undertaken in an area in the Fehmarnbelt in the period up to 2013. All stakeholders, e.g. the authorities and contractors, can obtain relevant information about soil conditions at any given time.

Investigations into navigational conditions and shipping in the Fehmarnbelt as well as a traffic forecast for shipping have also been undertaken. The results from these investigations will form the basis for planning initiatives aimed at ensuring navigational safety during the construction phase.

Archaeologists have also prepared detailed archaeological investigations to be undertaken in the spring and summer of 2012. These investigations are designed to reveal whether the area contains finds of such importance that they require major excavation.