Due to exceptional winter weather, damage has occurred at various locations on the road surface of the N261 between Tilburg and Waalwijk. To carry out emergency repairs and ensure safe traffic flow, one lane in both directions will be temporarily closed and the speed limit temporarily reduced to 70 kilometers per hour. This situation is expected to last until after the weekend.
The N261 has a so-called thin noise-reducing surface layer. This is an asphalt layer with many pores that partially absorb traffic noise. During heavy precipitation, these pores can fill with water. When that water subsequently freezes, it expands and cracks can form in the road surface. This has happened on the N261. The asphalt layer on the N261 is at the end of its lifespan. Major maintenance was already planned for next spring.
On the night from Thursday to Friday, some emergency repairs were already carried out on the road. Due to the damp weather, this proved insufficient to repair all damaged spots. Together with the maintenance contractor, the Province of North Brabant is doing everything possible this weekend to restore the road surface. When the work will be completed also depends on the weather in the coming days. The work is expected to last at least until the end of the weekend.
Until then, the right lane in both directions is closed. Signs inform road users of a temporary speed limit of 70 kilometers per hour. An initial survey indicates that no similar damage has occurred on other provincial roads in Brabant.