UNDER THE MERSEY

The transcript discusses the history and construction of tunnels under the River Mersey. The first tunnel, opened in 1934, took nearly ten years to build. A new tunnel is under construction, expected to be completed in less than five years, despite challenging conditions. The new tunnel will improve traffic flow and connect to a new motorway, with an opening planned for 1970.

Who inaugurated the first tunnel under the River Mersey?

• King Edward VIII

• Queen Victoria

• King George V

• Queen Elizabeth II

How much more expensive is the new tunnel compared to the first one?

• Three times as much

• Five times as much

• Twice as much

• Four times as much

How long did it take to bore the pilot shaft for the new tunnel?

• Eighteen months

• Six months

• Two years

• Twelve months

What is the width required for the pilot shaft to accommodate the traffic lanes?

• Twenty feet

• Twenty-six feet

• Twenty-two feet

• Twenty-four feet

In what year is the new tunnel expected to open?

• 1968

• 1972

• 1970

• 1965