The following measures apply from Wednesday, December 24, 2025:
- Bridge near Echt: no heavy special transport over 50 tons allowed.
- Bridge near Roosteren: no trucks or agricultural vehicles heavier than 3.5 tons allowed.
- Bridge near Illikhoven: traffic lights and road barriers ensure that traffic up to a maximum of 50 tons drives via the middle of the bridge.
Emergency Services and Public Transport
Emergency services and public transport (Arriva) are exempt from the proposed traffic restrictions. This exception does not affect the safety of the bridges. Slow traffic - such as cyclists and pedestrians - can continue to use the bridges. Detour routes are indicated by signs.
Regular Inspections by RWS
The bridges were built in 1963 and 1965 with a lifespan of 100 years. Because traffic has become more intense and heavier than in the 1960s, the bridges also wear out faster. Every year, Rijkswaterstaat visually inspects all bridges (links to another website) (opens external website) and every six years a thorough investigation takes place.
Investigation of Steel Bridges
To assess the effect of the increased use of the bridges, Rijkswaterstaat has started investigating all steel bridges. Recent research on these three bridges showed that the condition of the three bridges over the Julianakanaal was worse than expected. The measures mentioned are necessary to continue to guarantee the safety of the structure.
Rijkswaterstaat will further investigate the condition of the bridges. RWS expects to have the results by mid-2026. It will also look into whether temporary measures are possible to strengthen the bridges. All this is done in close cooperation with the managers of the three roads; the municipalities of Sittard-Geleen and Echt-Susteren and the Province of Limburg.