nuSep 28, 2026, 16:57

Backlog in bridge and lock renovation causes 20 billion euros in damages

The Economic Institute for Construction warns that a massive maintenance backlog for Dutch bridges and locks will cause 20 billion euros in economic damage by 2030. Budget shortages have forced authorities to restrict traffic on key routes, necessitating a more strategic investment approach to prevent further financial losses.

A new report from the Economic Institute for Construction (EIB) reveals that the Netherlands faces approximately 20 billion euros in economic damage due to a significant backlog in the maintenance and renewal of bridges, viaducts, and locks. With two-thirds of the required budget missing until 2030, authorities are frequently forced to implement traffic restrictions or closures, leading to costly detours for both road and water transport. Significant economic strain has been observed at major sites such as the Merwedebrug, Suurhoffbrug, and Van Brienenoordbrug.

The study suggests that timely intervention could have prevented billions in losses, noting that a 6 billion euro investment in paused projects could yield up to 12 billion euros in benefits. The EIB emphasizes that while additional funding is necessary, the government must also improve the efficiency of spending to prioritize projects with the highest economic impact. Without prompt action on remaining critical infrastructure, the potential for further financial damage remains high.

Economy Business Netherlands

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Based on reporting by nu. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.

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