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Rekervlotbrug: Problems again! Is the Million Bridge a flop?
The Rekervlotbrug near Koedijk is closed again due to belt damage. Causes and consequences are analyzed.
Rekervlotbrug: Problems again! Is the Million Bridge a flop?
The Rekervlotbrug, known for its series of breakdowns, has once again caused a stir. How NH Nieuws Reportedly, the bridge was closed to traffic again due to a broken pulley in the drive unit. Although the bridge was reopened to navigation by authorities on Thursday, a provincial spokesman said the problems with it have not yet been resolved.
The trouble began on Thursday when the bridge was reopened at around 11pm in the evening following a thorough inspection. However, diversion signs were put up at the same time, as the underlying cause of the defects remains unclear. A glimmer of hope: there is a possibility of reopening this week.
A bridge with history
The Rekervlotbrug has a problematic history that began before its official opening. Commissioning in 2012 was delayed by a full fifteen months due to technical deficiencies and subsequent insolvency proceedings. Within a week of its official opening, the bridge was already out of service. Since then, she has established herself as a regular in the “nuisance” category for users and the responsible province.
In February 2021, the bridge was significantly damaged in an accident and repairs took four months. The bridge was only reopened to traffic in December 2021, while a ferry served as a replacement in the meantime.
Problematic maintenance
Similar to many other bridges in Germany, the Rekervlotbrug suffers from a lack of maintenance and ease of use. Loud Planet knowledge Many bridges are dilapidated and require regular repairs. The high traffic load and especially heavy goods traffic have caused problems for the condition of many bridges in recent decades.
The Rekervlotbrug, which cost a whopping €8.6 million, is viewed by many as an expensive failure. While the province recognizes that such bridges require intensive maintenance, the accelerated wear and tear does not suggest any improvement. The incidents at the end of July, when the bridge was out of service due to a spare part being out of stock, only exacerbated this worrying situation. Research showed that the necessary repair parts were not available in a timely manner, delaying repairs and reopening.
In the meantime, the connection between Bergen and Koedijk remains a challenge for local traffic, as other bridges in the region are also temporarily closed for maintenance work. Public pressure is growing on the province and the relevant authorities to stabilize the situation and offer solutions.