A new phase of the Oranje Loper reconstruction project has begun on the north side of the Westermarkt. Crews are replacing underground cables and pipes before laying a new street surface above ground.
The redesign will introduce a dedicated cycle street, an accessible tram stop, and additional trees. The broader Oranje Loper project, which spans from Mercatorplein to Raadhuisstraat, began in 2019 and is scheduled for complete finish in 2028.
Project manager Emma Walboom noted that work on the Raadhuisstraat is nearly complete and the Rozengracht is also largely finished.
Traffic diversions and tram halts
The construction has led to local road closures for both motorists and cyclists. Both the Prinsengracht and Keizersgracht are shut to vehicle and bicycle traffic at the level of the Westermarkt.
Drivers leaving the canal ring can exit through the Westerstraat, Bloemgracht, or Leliegracht towards the Singel, though officials ask traffic to use the main diversion. The primary detour runs from the Nassaukade via the Prins Hendrikkade and Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal to the Raadhuisstraat.
Tram services along the Raadhuisstraat and Rozengracht route remain suspended until the end of February 2027.
Local responses to the work
Work on the northern section of the Westermarkt is scheduled to finish in the first quarter of 2027. Local residents and traders have expressed mixed reactions to the disruption.
A street artist working near the Westerkerk noted that while the disruption hurts business in the short term, the upgrades are necessary for the area. Other residents raised concerns about the extended walking detours required to carry groceries around the site.
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