Rehabilitation of the HSL South viaducts
| In collaboration with | Movares |
| Location | Hoofddorp |
| Expertises | |
Issues in the transverse restraint
For the HSL South line — at the time the largest public‑private partnership in the Netherlands — the substructure and superstructure were designed independently of each other. It is precisely at the interface between these two parts that problems have now emerged in the transverse restraint: the connection that is intended to prevent the trough girders from moving apart.
Development of three conceptual solutions
To address this deficiency, Arcadis, Arup and Movares/ABT are working on several solution approaches. Each firm is developing a conceptual solution focused on the transverse restraint. Once these solutions are completed, at the end of 2025, they will be integrated into the nine structures and recalculated. The findings will subsequently be incorporated into adapted solutions. In doing so, attention is paid not only to the technical aspects, but also to constructability, maintainability and the safety of implementation. This process leads toward the most optimal solution — or combination of solutions.
Image © ProRail Arjan Vlaswinkel
Strategic collaboration
This challenge requires an integrated approach. The collaboration between ABT and Movares is therefore a strong strategic choice: Movares brings extensive knowledge of rail operations and primary load‑bearing structures. ABT complements this with specialised expertise in non‑linear numerical modelling and concrete strengthening. ABT has previously designed foundations for ProRail structures and various railway bridges. We are also contributing to the electrification of the Maaslijn.
Six‑year framework agreement
The framework agreement for this project has a duration of approximately six years. It covers the following nine viaducts between Hoofddorp and Leiderdorp: Bennebroekerweg, Hoofdwaterweg, Venneperweg, Leimuidertocht, Rijnlanderweg, A44 and Lisserweg, Alkemadelaan cycle path, N445 and the Zuidzijdevaart. The southernmost viaducts will be addressed first in order to realise travel‑time gains as quickly as possible. In addition, the contract provides scope to address any other issues related to the substructure of the HSL South.
