Tall vehicles are not allowed in the Maastunnel as they can cause damage to the monumental tunnel and its installations. Moreover, overly tall vehicles cause significant inconvenience. When such a vehicle attempts to enter the tunnel, it triggers an automatic closure. The vehicle then has to turn around, which takes an average of 4 minutes, causing delays for traffic and public transport, increased air pollution, and noise disturbances.

Solution to recurring problem

Such automatic closures have occurred approximately 40 to 60 times per month. To reduce the number of closures, the municipality now enforces a height restriction for vehicles 3.9 meters and taller.

Reversing trucks at the Maastunnel are a thorn in our side, says Alderman Lansink-Bastemeijer, responsible for mobility. Each tunnel closure results in a pile of frustrations and gridlocked traffic in this crucial connection between the north and south and all surrounding roads. With this measure, we solve this recurring problem. We ensure better traffic flow and less delay for car traffic, our buses, and emergency services.

Route adjustment

Official prohibition signs have been placed on the route to the Maastunnel. This informs drivers of the height restriction in time, allowing them to choose an alternative route. Navigation systems and route planners have the option to create a new route.