Residents push back against rising Oostbrug costs

Nearly 70% of respondents in a survey of almost 2,000 residents believe the planned Oostbrug across the IJ should not be built at any cost. Over 80% want the city to explore other alternatives instead.

The bridge between Azartplein and the planned Hamerkwartier neighbourhood in Noord was chosen in 2024.

Initial projections placed completion in 2032 at an estimated cost of around €340 million, but delivery is now delayed to at least 2034 and price estimates have increased to between €650 million and €850 million.

Among participants living in Noord, nearly two thirds also oppose pushing the project through regardless of cost, with critics pointing to the high expense and questioning whether the location serves enough residents.

Calls for tunnels and metro stops

Respondents who favour looking at other solutions prefer a walking and cycling tunnel under the IJ or finishing the Sixhaven metro station. More than 70% rated both of those proposals as good ideas, compared to 32% who supported the Oostbrug.

Supporters of alternatives argue that a tunnel and a completed metro station would preserve access for large cruise liners and tall ships while relieving pressure on the busy ferry system.

Some residents still support the bridge, noting that the ferries are crowded and that the connection would offer a faster route towards Oost and the eastern edge of the city centre.

City defends the bridge plan

Alderwoman Elise Moeskops said the bridge should not be built at any cost, though she declined to name a spending ceiling. She attributed the cost increases to the pandemic and international conflicts.

Moeskops rejected the tunnel proposal, stating that building on the crowded area behind Centraal Station is not feasible. She added that restarting studies on older alternatives would take years and likely show similar cost increases.

The municipality is currently in discussions with the national government and the transport authority Vervoerregio to secure additional funding to cover the higher budget.

Source: AT5