Mott MacDonald's development director, Mark Leggett, has been appointed as chairman of the British Tunnelling Society (BTS).

He will take over from Roger Bridge, who has completed his two-year tenure.

With 26 years' experience in designing, leading and managing multi-million pound underground infrastructure developments, Mr Leggett has worked on numerous projects covering high-speed rail, mass transit systems, metros, utilities and highways.

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In addition, he has deployed specialist underground construction techniques such as tunnel boring machines, hand excavation, sprayed concrete lining and cut-and-cover works.

Speaking on his appointment, Mr Leggett said: "The use of underground space offers great value and delivers huge benefits to clients undertaking major infrastructure projects.

"Major schemes such as HS2 and Crossrail require leading-edge tunnelling techniques and solutions, as will future projects like the Trans-Pennine tunnel beneath the Peak District and the Stonehenge tunnel.

"Through the BTS we possess the collective expertise to make these projects a reality. At the same time we're able to provide the best independent guidance on how innovative underground construction can be undertaken sustainably and safely."

(LM/CD)