Home > Europe > United Kingdom > England > London > Politics > Harold Wilson
Channel Tunnel project cancelled 20th January 1975 On the day the button was to be
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Memory Lane
Channel Tunnel project cancelled 20th January 1975 On the day the button was to be
Channel Tunnel project cancelled 20th January 1975
On the day the button was to be pushed to start the giant tunnelling machine on its way under the English Channel, the workmen were standing around in the tunnel not knowing what was going to happen now the Channel Tunnel has been axed by the Labour government.
British Prime Minister Harold Wilson announced that the cancellation citing financial reasons, in particular due to the oil crisis, the doubling of cost estimates and the uncertainty about EEC membership due to forthcoming referendum later in the year.
Our Picture Shows: The entrance to the main tunnel
Alisdair MacDonald
Daily Mirror
Mirrorpix
Dover
Kent
England
75 387
Media ID 21798352
© Mirrorpix
Building Site Construction Industry And Work Kent Railway Seventies South East Subterranean Subterrania Underground 1975
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Architecture
> Tunnels
> Arts
> Artists
> W
> Wilson Wilson
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> Kent
> Related Images
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> London
> Politics
> Harold Wilson
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> Railways
> Memory Lane Prints
> Mirror
> 1100to1199
> 01103
> Popular Themes
> Railway Posters
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures a significant moment in history - the cancellation of the Channel Tunnel project on January 20th, 1975. As the day arrived when the button was supposed to be pressed, signaling the start of an ambitious tunnelling endeavor beneath the English Channel, uncertainty loomed over the workmen standing within its depths. The Labour government's decision to axe this monumental project was announced by British Prime Minister Harold Wilson, who cited financial concerns stemming from factors such as the oil crisis and escalating cost estimates. Additionally, with an impending referendum on European Economic Community (EEC) membership later that year, doubts about future prospects further contributed to this fateful cancellation. The photograph showcases a poignant scene at the entrance of what could have been a groundbreaking tunnel connecting England and France. It serves as a reminder of missed opportunities and dashed dreams for progress in transportation infrastructure during this era. Taken by Alisdair MacDonald in Kent, England, it encapsulates not only a construction site but also represents broader themes of industry and work in 1970s Britain. This image transports us back to a time when ambitions were halted abruptly due to external circumstances beyond anyone's control. As we reflect upon this historical moment frozen in time through Memory Lane Prints' collection, let us ponder what might have been if fate had taken another turn - if that button had indeed been pushed on that fateful day under those subterranean depths.
MADE IN THE UK
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
FREE COLORIZATION SERVICE
You can choose advanced AI Colorization for this picture at no extra charge!
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Basket.
