Major roadworks on N860 start March 16: expect delays and diversions
From March 16 to May 13, essential maintenance on the N860 (Rijksweg West) will cause significant traffic disruptions. Drivers between Hoogezand and Groningen face lane closures, diversions, and up to 15 minutes of extra travel time. Cyclists and bus services are also affected.
| Key Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Road Affected | N860 (Rijksweg West) |
| Closure Period | 16 March – 13 May 2026 |
| Location | Between Waterhuizen roundabout and Westerbroeksterbrug (Hoogezand → Groningen) |
| Diversion Route | A7 and Europaweg |
| Additional Travel Time | Up to 15 minutes |
| Impact on Cyclists | Partial diversion onto carriageway |
| Bus Service Adjustments | Line 76 rerouted; Waterhuizen roundabout bus stop closed |
| Reason for Works | Repair of sunken retaining walls to prevent collapse |
The Province of Groningen is responsible for the maintenance and safety of provincial roads like the N860. These works ensure the structural integrity of infrastructure, preventing hazards for road users and adjacent properties.
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Half of Rijksweg West carriageway closed from 16 March for maintenance
A section of the provincial road N860 will be closed to traffic from Hoogezand towards Groningen from Monday 16 March. Between the roundabout near Waterhuizen and the Westerbroeksterbrug bridge near Westerbroek, one lane will be closed until 13 May. Traffic between Hoogezand and Groningen will be diverted via the A7 and the Europaweg.
The lane closure is necessary for essential maintenance on sunken retaining walls along the N860, also known as Rijksweg West. Retaining walls along the cycle path and adjacent properties, which compensate for the height difference between the cycle path and the plots, have sunk in several places. There is a risk that these walls may collapse in the future. The prolonged closure is required to install new ground or steel sheet piling, improve drainage, and replace existing railing work.
During the works, the N860 will be closed to traffic from Hoogezand towards Groningen between the roundabout near Waterhuizen and the Westerbroeksterbrug. The diversion route for motorists runs via the A7 and the Europaweg. Drivers should expect a maximum of 15 minutes of additional travel time. Traffic from Groningen towards Hoogezand can continue to use one lane.
(Moped) cyclists may continue to ride and will be partially diverted onto the carriageway. Bus line 76 between Groningen and Hoogezand will operate an adapted route during the works. Only the bus stop at the Waterhuizen roundabout will be temporarily closed.
The works will begin on Monday 16 March at 06:00 and continue until Wednesday 13 May. The schedule may change in the event of unfavourable weather conditions.