Like all other cities, Bergen has a frequent need to dig up the streets and open spaces to repair old infrastructure and install new pipes and ducts. In order to avoid this becoming a permanent burden on the city, all major installation companies have formed an association - Graveklubben.
Graveklubben’s activities commenced in connection with the City of Bergen’s new 2007 directive concerning excavationsin the city centre. Graveklubben advises on and coordinates infrastructure installations in Bergen Centre.
The association has a rolling three-year plan in which the various districts have been assigned a different colour code, which reflects the joint installations scheduled for the year.
Today, 80 individual players subscribe to the Graveklubben website. Companies wishing to excavate in the city centre know exactly where and when there is an opportunity to do so.
Graveklubben’s planning has not just reduced loads on the city centre, but they have also saved the city a great deal of money. But it is no easy concept to introduce. Many municipalities have tried but few have succeeded. Strong political support and individual effort is needed for a successful concept.