The schedule for installing the sound insulating panels under the Coenbrug has changed. These panels will ensure that traffic on the bridge causes less noise disturbance to the surrounding area. The panels were to be installed in June 2025, but this has now been postponed to September 2025.
The later installation of the panels will not affect the commissioning of the operation of the Coenbrug. This is still planned for July 11, 2025.
Cause of changed planning
The cause of the changed planning is the trade tariffs that the United States imposed on China in April 2025. China subsequently decided to temporarily halt the supply of 17 critical rare earth metals to the West. This also affected the supply of very strong magnets used as an extra safeguard for the sound insulating panels under the Coenbrug.
Delivery is now slowly resuming, so according to the new schedule, the panels can be installed in September. All work on the Coenbrug will be completed by early October 2025.
No operation of Coenbrug
On May 4, 2021, a malfunction occurred at the Coenbrug on the A8, causing serious damage to the moving parts of the bridge. As a result, the bridge has not been able to open since then.
This damage will be repaired starting January 20, 2025. Among other things, the bridge flap and the moving parts of the bridge will be repaired. From July 11, 2025, the bridge can be operated again, allowing vessels taller than 6.20 m to use this shipping route. More information about the project can be found on the page A8 Coenbrug: no operation.