With a population expected to reach nearly 3.4 million by 2050, Stockholm County is one of the fastest-growing regions in Europe. This rapid growth places heavy demands on the transportation system in and around the Swedish capital.  

As a result, works are now underway to expand the Stockholm Metro network which will serve the residents of 130, 500 new homes being built near the urban centre.  

The expansion – which is the largest investment project for public transport in Stockholm since the 1970s – involves extending existing metro lines, constructing new stations and expanding the current facility. Not only will this increase capacity, but it will also improve connectivity across the region.  

Our role has been to support the client in providing design management and technical specialist support services for the Nacka line. This will ensure that the project is designed and executed safely and efficiently.  

How will the Stockholm Metro expansion benefit society?  

Today the Stockholm Metro handles 1.1 million passengers per day. The expansion alone will increase passengers per day by 10 percent. 

This will benefit passengers in multiple ways: 

  • One of the development’s main purposes is enabling the construction of 130, 500 new homes. These will be delivered by the municipalities as part of a negotiation between the government and the region. 
  • The extension of existing metro lines will improve accessibility by reaching previously underserved areas and help to reduce congestion on existing routes.  
  • The addition of 18 new stations around the city will also make travel more convenient for residents and visitors. 

Besides increasing capacity, the Stockholm Metro expansion will significantly improve connectivity and promote sustainable urban development.

Addressing challenges and mitigating hazards 

The Stockholm Metro expansion poses significant challenges, including tunnelling through urban areas, minimising ground settlement and navigating complex geological conditions.   

Our Independent Technical Assessment (ITA) of the Nacka line, therefore, has a crucial role in ensuring that the works are delivered as safely and efficiently as possible. With no direct involvement in the project’s design or construction, our experts provided a thorough, independent, and unbiased assessment.  

First, we conducted a detailed review of project designs, plans and specifications to ensure that they align with design standards and best practices. Next, we identified potential risks and challenges that may arise during construction and suggested strategies to mitigate these risks. By completing this analysis early on, it can prevent costly rework and delays.  

Throughout the process, we provided comprehensive documentation and reporting so that all stakeholders were kept informed of the project’s progress, findings, and recommendations. 

Upon completion of the ITA, we will produce a certificate to confirm that the project complies with engineering standards requirements. 

Ensuring quality, safety and compliance 

Besides increasing capacity, the Stockholm Metro expansion will significantly improve connectivity and promote sustainable urban development – providing a greener and more efficient mode of public transportation for the Swedish capital.  

In terms of our role, the ITA process on the Nacka line has helped to ensure that the works adhere to the highest safety and quality standards and that the project is on the right track to achieve its objectives.