Extensive rail maintenance work is set to disrupt train services in and around Leeuwarden from June 17 to July 9, forcing travelers to rely on bus replacements and endure significant delays.
Train routes affected by the maintenance include Leeuwarden to Harlingen, Leeuwarden to Stavoren, and Leeuwarden to Akkrum, rail operator ProRail warns. Passengers traveling beyond Akkrum towards Zwolle can still use the train service. Additionally, the section between Leeuwarden and Hurdegaryp will also see interruptions from June 17 to June 20 and on July 9.
During this period, NS and Arriva will provide bus services to replace the affected train routes. Travelers should anticipate extended travel times, potentially adding up to an hour to their journeys. Transport companies have also cautioned that the bus and train schedules may not always align seamlessly, necessitating close attention to travel planners.
Future-proofing Leeuwarden’s rails
ProRail says it aims to ensure the long-term reliability and resilience of the rail network through this maintenance work. According to Mirjam de Witte, ProRail’s spokesperson, the project will involve renovating tracks and switches to make the rail infrastructure more robust. “By reducing the number of tracks and switches, we minimize maintenance needs and the risk of failures,” says De Witte.
In addition to the track work, ProRail will enhance the water drainage systems to better manage excess rainwater, further safeguarding the infrastructure.
Noise, lights, and progress: What to expect during Leeuwarden’s rail works
Travelers are advised to stay updated with the latest travel information via journey planners during the maintenance period to avoid unexpected disruptions. The maintenance work is scheduled to be completed by July 10, after which regular train services will resume.
Residents near the rail lines in Leeuwarden may experience some inconveniences due to the construction activities. Large machinery and heavy tools used in the project could cause noise and light disturbances, and increased traffic from workers accessing the site is expected.
The maintenance will be conducted around the clock, involving tasks such as track renewal, removal of redundant switches, and expansion of the overhead lines. This effort is aimed at future-proofing Leeuwarden’s rail infrastructure, potentially accommodating an additional train service between Leeuwarden and Sneek.
Photo source: ProRail
