Heijmans strengthens position in tunnel renovations with Drecht Tunnel contract  

Heijmans, in collaboration with Dura Vermeer and SPIE, has been commissioned by the Dutch Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management (Rijkswaterstaat) to perform the renovation and long-term maintenance of the Drecht Tunnel (A16 motorway) in the South Holland province. The contract is worth approximately € 233 million for the DSH consortium, in which all partners hold a one-third stake. 

This contract will help to strengthen the order book at Heijmans’ Connecting operating segment. Ton Hillen, Heijmans CEO: “This contract strengthens our position in the renovation and maintenance of vital infrastructure. We combine technical expertise with an integrated approach and long-term commitment. This is fully in line with our focus on predictability, risk management and on increasing the proportion of recurring business in our portfolio.” 

A16 corridor 

With almost half a century under its belt, the tunnel is in need of major renovation to ensure that it remains safe and operational in the future. The river crossing beneath the Oude Maas, with daily traffic of around 155,000 vehicles, forms part of the busy A16 corridor. It is also a key route for international freight transport. 

Planning 

DSH will start the so-called scoping phase for additional studies and the refinement of the execution plan later this year. According to the current schedule, preparatory works will start in 2028. The main works are planned for the summer periods of 2029 and 2030, with the project due to be completed in the autumn of 2030. 

The contract covers the renewal of all technical installations, as well as the systems for the operation, monitoring and control of the Drecht Tunnel. The project will also address the tunnel’s concrete, asphalt and ceiling structure. DSH will remain involved in the maintenance of the Drecht Tunnel until 2039.