Badgers, deer, reptiles such as sand lizards, and amphibians will get a safe crossing over the Hilversumseweg (N525) in Laren thanks to the construction of a new nature bridge.

It is the essential link in a network of 6 nature bridges from the Gooi region to the Utrechtse Heuvelrug. This allows animals to cross more safely, creating one large habitat from Gooimeer to Grebbeberg.

The Province of North Holland has signed a cooperation agreement for this project with the municipalities of Laren and Hilversum and the Goois Nature Reserve. This agreement includes arrangements on finances, location, ownership, and management. The nature bridge will be located on land of the Goois Nature Reserve between the Schaapskooi Laren and the Vitens drinking water pumping station. 

Westerheide Nature Bridge is part of the Dutch Nature Network. The project is included in the Short Term Agenda Rural Area North Holland 2025-2027, in which the province works on improving biodiversity.

Deputy Anouk Gielen: The arrival of this nature bridge is essential for the plants and animals living in the Dutch Nature Network. It removes an obstacle for nature. I am very happy that we can now really get started.”

Design of the nature bridge

In 2024, a design study was conducted with great attention to cultural history, avenue trees, sight lines of the Hilversumseweg, and the landscape. This study forms the basis for further elaboration. Together with Goois Nature Reserve and the municipalities, the province will ensure a bridge that fits well into the landscape and contributes to healthy nature in the Gooi. 

Director Carla Kersbergen of Goois Nature Reserve: “The realization of this nature bridge marks the restoration of an important connection between two large heath areas. It is an important milestone in the ongoing task of connecting nature areas and strengthening the landscape.”

Planning

Preparations for the construction of the nature bridge have begun. Spatial procedures will start at the end of 2026. Before that, the area will be extensively informed about the plans. The tender will follow in 2027. Construction begins in 2028. The nature bridge is expected to be ready for use by the end of 2029. Before the nature bridge is built, the province will work with Goois Nature Reserve in the second half of 2026 to make the bicycle tunnel under the N525 safer. 

More information can be found on the website of the Province of North Holland.