The Province of Drenthe will start work on the N374 between Bruntinge and Hoogeveen at the end of August. The road is due for maintenance. At the same time, the province seizes this opportunity to create nine wildlife passages under the road, thereby enhancing the ecological quality in the Natura 2000 area of Mantingerzand.

The Province of Drenthe will construct eight wildlife tunnels and a water culvert under the N374 at the height of Mantingerzand. The Natura 2000 area of Mantingerzand is crossed by the provincial road N374, which forms a barrier for various animal species.

With the construction of the wildlife tunnels, the province is taking an important step in improving ecological connections in this Natura 2000 area. The tunnels ensure that animals such as badgers, amphibians, and other small mammals can cross safely without the risk of being hit by traffic. Based on the results of ecological research, the tunnels will be placed in strategic locations, based on the migration patterns of animals.

Minimizing Disruption

The construction of the tunnels will take place in conjunction with planned regular maintenance of the road surface. The work will be carried out in one go, minimizing disruption for the surrounding area and road users. A new layer of asphalt with markings will be applied, and grass concrete tiles will be installed along the road. The work is expected to be completed by the end of October.

Investment Credit

The Provincial States allocated an investment credit of over 1.7 million euros on July 9, 2025, for the realization of the wildlife tunnels. The investment will be fully covered by funds made available by the national government for the enhancement of nature in Drenthe.