Published on: February 26, 2026, 08:54 AM
The characteristic Argus mast of the Sand Motor will be removed in March 2026. Due to the changing coastline, the water is getting closer, causing the mast to eventually stand in the water. Removing the mast prevents dangerous situations around it.
The Argus mast is a 40-meter-high mast equipped with cameras. It stands in the middle of the Sand Motor and has been used since 2012 to continuously monitor changes in the shape of the Sand Motor. The studies conducted with the mast were completed several years ago. Since then, the mast has only been used on request by researchers from universities and knowledge institutions.
Storms
The removal of the Argus mast has been planned for some time. Due to coastal erosion, the coastline is slowly moving towards the mast. During the autumn storms of 2025, the water quickly approached. If the waterline gets too close to the mast, dangerous pits can form around it, making removal more difficult. Therefore, it was decided to remove the mast now.
Argus mast works
This week, the cameras were removed from the mast. The clearing of the mast itself starts Monday, March 2, and lasts two and a half weeks. In the first week, the construction site is prepared and the dome is dismantled.
The following week, large parts such as the mast, foundation, and power cable are removed and transported away. In the last week, the construction site is dismantled and the area restored.
Large machines and heavy equipment will use the access at Badweg in Hoek van Holland. The Schelpenpad access is used for the transport of light materials and personnel. Part of the beach will be temporarily closed for safety.
About the Sand Motor
The Sand Motor was created in 2011 off the coast of Kijkduin as a pilot project in coastal maintenance. A large amount of sand was deposited once in the shape of a peninsula. Natural processes such as wind and currents spread the sand along the coast and dunes, strengthening the coast. Additionally, the Sand Motor created a new area for nature and recreation.
Since 2011, an extensive monitoring program has been running to track the Sand Motors development. We coordinate this program and have been collecting data in various ways for 14 years.
Even after the mast is removed, the research will continue. We will keep closely monitoring dune growth, soil life, and the shape of the Sand Motor.
More information about the Sand Motor and the various studies can be found on the website Sand Motor.